Work - Volume 69, issue 4

Authors: Jacobs, Karen

Article Type: Editorial

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-213541

Citation: Work, vol. 69, no. 4, pp. 1125-1126, 2021

Authors: Arnout, Boshra A.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to investigate entrepreneurship predictors among psychological service workers during the COVID-19 pandemic and detect the difference in entrepreneurship among psychological service workers due to sex and experience in work. METHOD: A random sample of 321 workers in the field of psychological Services answered an online questionnaire that contained six scales (mental traits, psychological traits, success in work, effectiveness, creativity, and innovation, responsible decision). The data collected from the study participants were analyzed quantitatively by using a t -test, One-way ANOVA, Exploratory Factor Analysis EFA, Confirmatory Factor Analysis CFA, and Structural Equation Model (IBM SPSS …statistics 21, and Amos v.25). RESULTS: The findings showed the validity of the conceptual proposed model of entrepreneurship among the psychological service workers. The default model has goodness-of-fit indicators to predict the workers’ psychological services’ entrepreneurship in their professional practice. The results also indicated significant differences due to the years of work experience in work and responsible decision dimensions in favor of the sample members belonging to the experiences group with more than ten years. Simultaneously, there are no differences in entrepreneurship’s total score, mental traits, psychological, effectiveness, and creativity and innovation. The results also showed that there are statistically significant differences between males and females in the success in work dimension in favor of males (males mean = 21.359, females mean = 19.461, t  = 2.797, P  < 0.05), also in responsible decisions in favor of males (males mean = 9.734, females mean = 6.927, t  = 8.853, P  < 0.05). CONCLUSION: Mental traits, psychological traits, success in work, effectiveness, creativity and innovation, creativity, and innovation make responsible decisions significant predictors of entrepreneurship among the workers in psychological services. Thus, we recommend adopting the six criteria for entrepreneurship in professional practice when evaluating the workers in psychological services’ performance. These results indicate the need for plaining training programs to increase the entrepreneurship among workers in psychological services whose experience is less than ten years, especially female workers in psychological services. Show more

Keywords: Entrepreneurship, workers in psychological services, work engagement, mental traits, psychological traits, success in work, effectiveness, creativity, responsible decisions, COVID-19, pandemic

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-205245

Citation: Work, vol. 69, no. 4, pp. 1127-1141, 2021

Authors: Pirincci, Edibe | Arca, Muhammed | Sen, Mehmet Ali | Atici, Erhan | Varsak, Suleyman | Yarasir, Ezgi | Kurt, Osman | Oguzoncul, Ayse Ferdane | Deveci, Suleyman Erhan

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: While the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic creates fear and anxiety on the students’ academic achievement, the risk of an infectious disease may negatively affect education by reducing the concentration ability of students. Thus, it is essential to evaluate the knowledge, behaviors, anxiety levels, and hygiene status of students. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to investigate the knowledge, behavior change, anxiety, and hygiene status of university students about COVID-19. METHODS: The investigation was conducted with students of three vocational schools of health services located in different provinces of Turkey (n  = 1055). Data collected by an online survey consisted …of knowledge questions about COVID-19, items about behavior change, the hygiene behavior scale (HBS), and the Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7 (GAD-7) scale. RESULTS: The knowledge scores of women were significantly higher than the scores of men. Of the students, 59.6%showed positive hygiene behaviors, and 31.5%had anxiety. Female students’ total HDC scale score was significantly lower than that of men, and the total HDC scale score of those who received hand hygiene education was significantly lower than that of participants who did not receive training, which shows a positive hygiene behavior. The total GAD-7 scale score of women was significantly higher than that of men. More than half of the students showed positive hygiene behaviors, and about a third had anxiety. CONCLUSIONS: Based on the study’s results, psychological support and training should be provided to students. Show more

Keywords: Behaviors, coronavirus, knowledge, psychological factors, university students

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-205254

Citation: Work, vol. 69, no. 4, pp. 1143-1152, 2021

Authors: Almhdawi, Khader A. | Obeidat, Donia | Kanaan, Saddam F. | Hajela, Nupur | Bsoul, Mohammad | Arabiat, Alaa | Alazrai, Alza | Jaber, Hanan | Alrabbaie, Hassan

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Strict strategies including lockdowns and working from home were adopted worldwide during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. University professors suddenly shifted to work from home adopting distance teaching. OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to investigate Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQoL) and its associated occupational and health factors during COVID-19 among university professors. METHODS: A cross-sectional design targeted university professors of all majors in Jordan. The study self-administered survey included demographics and lifestyle data, 12-item Short Form health survey (SF-12), Depression Anxiety Stress Scale (DASS 21), professor’ evaluation of distance teaching, Neck Disability Index (NDI), and International Physical …Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ). Descriptive analyses were conducted to demonstrate primary outcome measures data. Factors associated with HRQoL were determined using a multiple variable linear regression analysis. RESULTS: A total of 299 university professors successfully completed the study. Participants’ SF-12 physical health component score was 74.08 (±18.5) and 65.74 (±21.4) for mental health component. Higher depression, stress, neck disability, and weight change were significantly associated with lower HRQoL level. While higher satisfaction with distance teaching, health self-evaluation, and work load change were significantly associated with higher HRQoL level. The regression model explained 66.7%of the variance in professors’ HRQoL (r2 = 0.667, F  = 82.83, P  < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Jordanian university professors demonstrated good HRQoL and mental health levels during COVID-19 lockdown. Factors associated with professors’ HRQoL should be considered by academic institutions in determining the best occupational setup of teaching activities in future pandemics. Show more

Keywords: Occupational stress, professors, health-related quality of life, mental health, stress, depression

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-205276

Citation: Work, vol. 69, no. 4, pp. 1153-1161, 2021

Authors: Türktemiz, Halil | Ünal, Özgün | Aydın, Dilek Bingöl

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Determining the healthcare professionals’ perceptions and attitudes towards the COVID-19 pandemic will contribute to managing and struggling their efforts against COVID-19. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to determine the perceptions and attitudes of healthcare professionals who are at the forefront in the fight against this pandemic. METHODS: In the study, the survey technique used as the data collection method and 216 participants agreed to participate. The questionnaire consisted of three sections. Reliability analysis and descriptive statistical methods used to analyze the data obtained using the SPSS package program. RESULTS: According to the study results, …80.4%of the participants perceive the probability of being infected with the COVID-19 to be very high, and 64%of them consider that the conditions are very favorable for them to be infected. More than half of them are afraid of being infected and believe that if they contract COVID-19, adverse effects may continue for a long time. Furthermore, almost all participants (96.20%) consider personal protective equipment beneficial and will protect them from the COVID-19 as a wise preventive measure. However, 82.30%of the participants stated that using personal protective equipment is uncomfortable, and 76.60%said it is challenging to take care of patients while using personal protective equipment. CONCLUSIONS: The current study results show that healthcare professionals are aware of how serious COVID-19 is, understand the importance of protective equipment in protection from COVID-19, and are seriously afraid of COVID-19. Given that the fears of healthcare professionals may have adverse effects on them, it is recommended that healthcare administrators take measures to comfort healthcare workers and ensure that they maintain their positive attitude towards COVID-19. Show more

Keywords: COVID-19 pandemic, healthcare professionals’ challenges, fear of COVID-19, personal protective equipment, stigma and avoidance

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-205305

Citation: Work, vol. 69, no. 4, pp. 1163-1170, 2021

Authors: Awada, Mohamad | Lucas, Gale | Becerik-Gerber, Burcin | Roll, Shawn

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: With the COVID-19 pandemic, organizations embraced Work From Home (WFH). An important component of transitioning to WFH is the effect on workers, particularly related to their productivity and work experience. OBJECTIVES: The objective of this study is to examine how worker- , workspace- , and work -related factors affected productivity and time spent at a workstation on a typical WFH day during the pandemic. METHODS: An online questionnaire was designed and administered to collect the necessary information. Data from 988 respondents were included in the analyses. RESULTS: Overall perception of productivity level among …workers did not change relative to their in-office productivity before the pandemic. Female, older, and high-income workers were likely to report increased productivity. Productivity was positively influenced by better mental and physical health statuses, having a teenager, increased communication with coworkers and having a dedicated room for work. Number of hours spent at a workstation increased by approximately 1.5 hours during a typical WFH day. Longer hours were reported by individuals who had school age children, owned an office desk or an adjustable chair, and had adjusted their work hours. CONCLUSION: The findings highlight key factors for employers and employees to consider for improving the WFH experience. Show more

Keywords: Remote work, workspace, work hours, workstation, office work, socioeconomic impact

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-210301

Citation: Work, vol. 69, no. 4, pp. 1171-1189, 2021

Authors: Zangoue, Malihe | Safari, Hamidreza | Royce, Simon G. | Zangooie, Alireza | Rezapour, Hadis | Zangouei, Amirsadra | Fereidouni, Mohammad

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: The first case of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) was reported in December 2019 in Wuhan, China. Healthcare workers (HCWs) are at high risk of acquiring and spreading the COVID-19 infection; using personal protective equipment (PPE) reduces the risk of COVID-19 infection in HCWs. OBJECTIVE: Our study aimed to investigate the seroprevalence of COVID-19 IgG, IgM antibodies among HCWs as well as identifying the factors associated with this seroprevalence. METHODS: This cross-sectional study was performed from July to August 2020 on healthcare workers at two COVID-19 referral hospitals of Birjand University of Medical Sciences. The level …of COVID-19 IgG and IgM antibodies in sera was measured by commercial qualitative ELISA kits. RESULTS: In total, 192 individuals participated in the study: physicians (31.25%), nurses (30.2%). 84.2% of participants had contact with confirmed COVID-19 cases and among them 42.9 % of had close contact with COVID-19 patients for more than 3 months, and 31% reported close contact with more than 50 confirmed COVID-19 cases. Mask and gloves were the most frequently used personal protective equipment (PPE) with 92.4% and 77.2% of usage. CONCLUSIONS: The results of the current study showed high level of adherence to the use of PPE among HCWs as well as very low prevalence of seropositivity for of COVID-19 antibodies, hence confirming the effectiveness of PPE in protecting HCWs among COVVID-19 and possibly any other similar infections. Show more

Keywords: COVID-19, PPE, HCW, seroprevalence, antibody

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-210634

Citation: Work, vol. 69, no. 4, pp. 1191-1196, 2021

Authors: Incekara, Cetin O.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Because of wrong sitting position, children have back-pain and related musculoskeletal pain (MPD). Due to inappropriate designed class furniture by not taking into account the children’s anthropometric measurements have negative effect on children musculoskeletal systems. The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic crisis has changed the furniture industry’s production trends. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to develop a new fuzzy based design of ergonomic-oriented classroom furniture for primary school students considering the measured anthropometric dimensions of students’ safety, health, well-being, i.e. ergonomic criteria, socio-psychological aspect and post-COVID policies. METHODS: In the study 2049 number of primary school …students are assessed considering COVID-19 pandemic policies and their static anthropometric dimensions were measured between 7-10-year-old (between 1st-4th grade students) and descriptive statistics of children among their ages and genders are calculated; mean, standard deviation, percentiles. The data collected from the students were analyzed quantitatively by using Significance Analysis: Mann-Whitney U test statistic, t -test, Regression Analysis and one-way ANOVA. In the study interviews with experts are performed and fuzzy mathematical model (by using fuzzy-AHP, fuzzy-TOPSIS and fuzzy-VIKOR) is developed to calculate Turkey’s three schools’ furniture. RESULTS: Results showed statistically significant differences between two genders. And it is observed that the seating bench height is too high for primary school students and lower than the height of the classroom’s blackboard from the floor. Fuzzy Multi Criteria Decision Making Method’s (FMCDM) results show that primary school students’ ergonomic classroom furniture should be mainly designed by considering “COVID-19 Criteria”, “Ergonomic Criteria” and “Socio-Psychological Aspect”. Students’ existing seating benches and tables are changed by considering post-COVID policies/protocols, Ergonomic Criteria and Socio-Psychological Aspect. And a new seating bench/chair and table’s dimensions is proposed in the study. CONCLUSIONS: Children study at school for long periods and their activities involve long periods of time on their desks in schools. As per the results of the study, it can be concluded that school management must consider the genders, ages of students and take into account the post-COVID policies/protocols while procuring the classroom furniture. The COVID-19 pandemic is the single largest event to have affected children globally in their access to school in recent times; estimates suggest that over 85%of the world’s total enrolled learners, 1.5 billion children and youths, have been affected. The coronavirus pandemic also creates dramatic changes for the school furniture. Show more

Keywords: Ergonomic design, school furniture, students, fuzzy logic, fuzzy AHP/TOPSIS/VIKOR, COVID

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-210652

Citation: Work, vol. 69, no. 4, pp. 1197-1208, 2021

Authors: Einarsdóttir, Margrét | Rafnsdóttir, Guðbjörg Linda

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Teenage workers are prone to a higher injury risk than adult workers, and adult men are prone to a higher risk of work injuries than adult women. OBJECTIVES: This study aims to examine whether gender differences exist in teenage work accidents, the level of the accidents, their causes, and the types of the injuries. METHODS: A survey was sent to a sample of 2,800 13–19-year-olds, randomly selected from Registers Iceland. The response rate was 48.6%. A chi-square test, CI 95%, was applied to measure gender differences. RESULTS: In total, 16.3%of the respondents had …at least one work accident, and 1.2%, an accident that lead to more than one week’s absence from work. No gender differences were observed in the level of the accidents, but appeared in the types of injuries and their causes. Cuts were the most common injuries of the boys, but burns of the girls. Bone fractures were the most serious injuries of the boys, but sprains of the girls. CONCLUSION: Work accidents among teenagers are a particular threat to public health. Therefore, all stakeholders need to work together to prevent teenage work accidents in the future; and to keep in mind the gender diversity of the group. Show more

Keywords: Work injuries, gender equality, adolescents, Iceland

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-213542

Citation: Work, vol. 69, no. 4, pp. 1209-1216, 2021

Authors: Heidari, Jahan | Burton, Nicola W. | McCuaig-Holcroft, Louise | Kellmann, Michael

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: The demanding working conditions of teachers make them susceptible to stress. Monitoring temporal changes in recovery and stress may provide a valuable approach for maintaining well-being. OBJECTIVE: This exploratory study followed a two-stage approach aimed at: a) collecting data about the potential effects of holidays on stress in teachers, and b) utilizing these findings to provide tangible feedback to teachers. METHODS: Thirty-seven German teachers completed online questionnaires over six months (eight measurements) which included two holiday periods (Easter break, Summer break). Sociodemographic data regarding recovery and stress were gathered using the Recovery-Stress Questionnaire Work. Interested …teachers received individual feedback sessions. RESULTS: The results, inter alia, indicated significant time effects for the dimensions Overall Stress (F (7,119) = 5.31, p  < 0.001) and Overall Recovery (F (3.7,67.7) = 4.33, p  = 0.004). Significant positive changes were identified over the Summer, but not the Easter break. In the feedback sessions, group-based findings were connected with the individual recovery-stress values. Notable scores were highlighted in a matrix. CONCLUSIONS: This study demonstrates an approach to monitoring and providing group and personalised feedback to raise teachers’ awareness and sensitivity of psychological health status in relation to their working environment. Show more

Keywords: Health, individualisation, monitoring, coping, school

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-213543

Citation: Work, vol. 69, no. 4, pp. 1217-1227, 2021

Authors: Chandrasekaran, Baskaran | Rao, Chythra R. | Davis, Fiddy | Arumugam, Ashokan

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Prolonged sitting in desk-based office workers is found to be associated with increased cardiometabolic risk and poor cognitive performance. Technology-based physical activity (PA) interventions using smartphone applications (SmPh app) to promote PA levels might be effective in reducing cardiometabolic risk among sedentary population but the evidence remains inconclusive. OBJECTIVE: The objective is to investigate the effects of a technology-based PA intervention compared to PA education with a worksite manual or no intervention on PA levels, cardiometabolic risk, cognitive performance, and work productivity among desk-based employees. METHOD: A three-arm clustered randomized trial will be conducted. The …study will be conducted among various administrative offices of a multifaceted university in India. Desk-based employees aged between 30 and 50 years (n  = 159; 53 in each arm) will be recruited. Employees from various constituent institutions (clusters) of the university will be randomized into one of the three following groups - SMART: SmPh app-driven break reminders (visual exercise prompts) plus pedometer-based step intervention, TRADE: worksite PA education with a manual plus American College of Sports Medicine guided PA prescription, or CONTROL: usual work group. At baseline and after the 1st, 3rd and 6th month of the trial period, accelerometer-measured sitting time and PA levels, cardiometabolic risk (fasting blood glucose, triglycerides, insulin, blood pressure, heart rate variability, functional capacity, and subcutaneous fat), cognitive performance (executive function), sickness absenteeism and work limitations will be assessed by a blinded assessor. Therapist delivering interventions will not be blinded. CONCLUSION: This trial will determine whether a combined SmPh-app and pedometer-based intervention is more effective than education or no intervention in altering PA levels, cardiometabolic risk and cognitive performance among desk-based employees in India. This study has the potential to foster institutional recommendations for using SmPh-based technology and pedometers to promote PA and reduce sedentary behavior at work. Show more

Keywords: M-health, physical activity, office workers, worksite education, cardiometabolic risk, cognition, work productivity, musculoskeletal discomfort

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-213544

Citation: Work, vol. 69, no. 4, pp. 1229-1245, 2021

Authors: Khoshroo, Fatemeh | Seidi, Foad | Rajabi, Reza | Thomas, Abbey

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Distinctive features of low back pain-developers (LBPDs) as pre-clinical low back pain (LBP) population have been evidenced in three areas of alignment, muscle activation, and movement patterns. To clarify whether the reported altered functional movement patterns in chronic LBP patients result from or result in LBP disorders, LBPDs’ functional movement patterns should be investigated. OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to compare female LBPDs’ functional movement patterns with non-pain developers’ (NPDs). METHODS: Sixty female LBPDs and NPDs were recruited based on the research requirements. The Functional Movement Screen (FMS) was used to investigate movement quality. Data were …compared between groups via Mann-Whitney U tests and correlation analyses examined association between pain intensity and onset during prolonged standing and the FMS score. Receiver Operating Characteristic Curves and Chi Squares were conducted to find the best cutoff points. An alpha level of p ≤0.05 was used to establish statistical significance. RESULTS: LBPDs scored significantly lower, or rather worse than NPDs in the FMS composite score (12.06±1.33 vs. 16.43±1.59, U  = 3, P  < 0.001). Moreover, the optimal cutoff scores of≤14 on the FMS, 2 on the push-up, and 1 on the deep squat discriminated between female LBPDs and NPDs. The FMS composite score was correlated negatively with LBP intensity (r (60) = –0.724, p  < 0.001) and positively with LBP onset (r (60) = 0.277, p  = 0.032) during prolonged standing. Finally, the results indicated that female LBPDs presented with at least one bilateral asymmetry on the FMS had 10 times (95% CI, 2.941–34.008) and with at least two bilateral asymmetries on the FMS had 15.5 times (95% CI, 3.814–63.359) higher odds of developing LBP during prolonged standing than NPDs. CONCLUSIONS: Female LBPDs, who are at higher risk for developing LBP in the future, have significantly lower quality of functional movement patterns compared to NPDs. Moreover, the FMS appears to show promise for predicting individuals who are at risk for LBP development during prolonged standing. Show more

Keywords: FMS, low back/lumbar spine, pain, prevention, injury

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-213545

Citation: Work, vol. 69, no. 4, pp. 1247-1254, 2021

Authors: Kawada, Tomoyuki

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Health habits are sometimes closely related to physical and mental health status. OBJECTIVE: The relationship between coffee consumption and psychological wellbeing was evaluated by considering confounding factors. METHODS: A total of 5,256 men, aged 35 to 60 years, from a workplace in Japan participated in this study conducted in 2018. Psychological wellbeing was evaluated using the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ) 12-item version and multivariate logistic regression analysis was used for the analysis. RESULTS: Positive GHQ12 score was significantly associated with average daily sleeping time < 4 h, lack of regular exercise and younger age. In …contrast, there was no significant association between positive GHQ12 score and coffee consumption. Coffee consumption and smoking status was not significantly related to psychological wellbeing as measured using the GHQ questionnaire. In contrast, aging, regular exercise and sleeping time were related to psychological wellbeing. CONCLUSION: Coffee consumption was not significantly related to psychological wellbeing, and casual association might be confirmed by a prospective study. Show more

Keywords: Coffee consumption, psychological wellbeing, workers

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-213546

Citation: Work, vol. 69, no. 4, pp. 1255-1259, 2021

Authors: Fiebert, Ira | Kistner, Fran | Gissendanner, Christine | DaSilva, Christopher

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: The excessive use of hand-held mobile devices (HHMD) leads to a postural phenomenon known as text neck. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this paper is to discuss the anatomical, biomechanical and muscle activation changes within the cervical and thoracic regions associated with the sustained, forward, flexed neck posture, observed with excessive usage of hand-held mobile devices. Additionally, this paper examines the relationship of gender, as well as the effects of carrying backpack loads by youth, on this forward, flexed neck posture. METHODS: Multiple aspects of the text neck position that occur when an individual uses a …HHMD are described. RESULTS: Prolonged use of hand-held mobile devices results in adverse anatomical and biomechanical changes in the cervical and thoracic spine, muscular imbalances, and postural compensations, all of which contribute to muscular overuse and fatigue resulting in pain. CONCLUSIONS: Physical therapists must educate their patients about proper posture while using hand-held mobile devices. Proper posture includes: holding the device close to eye level, using the device while standing or sitting and holding the device with a line of sight perpendicular to the surface of the device, using a larger screen, and texting with both hands. Also, because children are using hand held mobile devices at younger ages, parents and teachers must be educated about the dangers of prolonged use of hand-held devices. Show more

Keywords: Forward head posture, mobile phone, cervical pain, neck pain

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-213547

Citation: Work, vol. 69, no. 4, pp. 1261-1270, 2021

Authors: Dolev, Niva | Itzkovich, Yariv | Fisher-Shalem, Orit

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Interrelations between incivility and its precursors or consequences, as well as the role of these interrelations in employees’ reactions to incivility are still poorly understood. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of the present study was to assess different reactions to workplace incivility while identifying specific and individual-based appraisals and emotions associated with these reactions. METHOD: A qualitative research approach using semi-structured in-depth interviews, with a sample of 42 employees in a beverage manufacturing corporation in Israel to capture employees’ voices regarding their incivility experiences. RESULTS: Analysis of the interviews indicated four reaction-categories: (1) Exit; (2) …Voice; (3) Loyalty; and (4) Neglect, in line with the theoretical EVLN model for describing reactions to stressful conditions. In particular, the interviews revealed a dynamic reaction process and suggested that intentionality of reaction provides a third, new dimension. Additionally, an underlying emotional process rooted in appraisals and aroused emotions was evident in each of the reactions. CONCLUSIONS: Organizations that wish to reduce incivility events may wish to examine the emotions of targets of incivility, explore the underlying appraisals associated with these emotions, and be mindful of the dynamic and highly individual reaction processes involved. Show more

Keywords: Mistreatment, workplace emotions, exit/voice/loyalty/neglect model, appraisals, work-related stress

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-213548

Citation: Work, vol. 69, no. 4, pp. 1271-1282, 2021

Authors: Mirpuri, Sheena | Riley, Kristen | Gany, Francesca

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Taxi drivers, an immigrant male population, may exhibit poor health behaviors and increased health risks. OBJECTIVE: The current study examined stress and demographics as predictors of physical activity (PA), nutrition, sleep, and smoking, and the co-occurrence of these behaviors among taxi drivers. METHODS: A cross-sectional needs assessment was conducted in New York City. The sample (n  = 252) was comprised of male taxi drivers, 98%of whom were born outside of the U.S., with the majority from South Asian countries (62%), and 45 years old on average (SD = 11). RESULTS: We found low rates of fruit/vegetable …consumption and PA. Rates of stress, PA, and smoking varied by demographic factors. Stress was positively associated with sleep disturbances and negatively associated with smoking. Aside from a relationship between sugar consumption and smoking, other health behaviors were not associated. CONCLUSIONS: While stress appears to impact some indicators of modifiable health behaviors, its lack of relationship with others points to more persistent health issues. Demographic differences found for PA and smoking also point to groups that may especially benefit from interventions. These findings suggest the need for targeted health interventions for taxi drivers in large metropolitan cities. Show more

Keywords: Physical activity, nutrition, sleep, smoking

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-213549

Citation: Work, vol. 69, no. 4, pp. 1283-1291, 2021

Authors: Papakonstantinou, Doxa

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Rheumatoid arthritis is often associated with work disability, a term used to describe the inability to be or to remain employed. Work disability is a common implication of rheumatoid arthritis. OBJECTIVE: This review aims to identify and analyze the predictive factors of work disability among patients with rheumatoid arthritis, as well as to group these factors into broader categories, based on the most current studies in this field. METHODS: An electronic search was conducted using Google Scholar, MEDLINE and PsycINFO databases. Eighty-six international journal articles were finally selected. RESULTS: The results suggest that …occupational, personal, medical and societal factors are the main predictive categories of work disability for people with rheumatoid arthritis. CONCLUSIONS: Medical progress has had a positive effect on the development and the rates of work disability among patients with RA. Work disability is, however, not only defined by medical factors. Occupational, personal and societal factors interact with each other and affect the development of work disability in RA. The results of this review emphasize the need for medical and vocational therapy interventions, social support and state policies that target the work status of patients with RA. Future holistic research approaches to the field are required for a complete picture and concrete solutions with the aim of keeping patients with RA employed. Show more

Keywords: Disease activity, work limitations, value of work, workplace dynamics, vocational rehabilitation

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-213550

Citation: Work, vol. 69, no. 4, pp. 1293-1304, 2021

Authors: Skúladóttir, Edda Björk | Fenger, Kristjana | Bejerholm, Ulrika | Sandqvist, Jan

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Evidence-based services in vocational rehabilitation call for valid and reliable assessments of work performance for intervention planning and safe return to work for individuals with illness or injuries. Assessments that are easy to use, culturally adapted, and in a language professionals and clients understand is important for their utility. Translation and adaption of assessments to new languages and cultures are of importance to maintain high standards of assessments and the quality of services in the vocational rehabilitation setting. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to translate and adapt the Assessment of Work Performance (AWP), into the …Icelandic language and culture. Furthermore, to investigate the content validity and utility of the evaluation instrument. METHODS: The study was conducted in two phases. The first phase, based on the Dual-Panel translation method, included two expert panels performing translation and cultural adaption of the original Swedish AWP. In the second phase field testing of the translated instrument was followed by an online survey among vocational rehabilitation professionals for content validation and utility. RESULTS: The results of the study showed satisfactory opinions from experienced professionals toward the content validity, translation, cultural adaption, and utility of the Icelandic version of the AWP. CONCLUSIONS: The study indicates that the Dual-Panel translation method is a valid method when translating instruments from one language and culture to another. Furthermore, the results of the study imply that the AWP can be regarded as content valid up to an acceptable degree for implementation in vocational rehabilitation services in Iceland. Show more

Keywords: Occupational therapy, the Model of Human Occupation, work ability, psychometric properties, vocational rehabilitation

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-213551

Citation: Work, vol. 69, no. 4, pp. 1305-1316, 2021

Authors: Robertson, Michelle M. | Tubbs, Diana | Henning, Robert A. | Nobrega, Suzanne | Calvo, Alec | Murphy, Lauren A.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Organizational readiness for change measures were reviewed to develop an assessment tool for guiding implementation of an occupational safety and health program based on Total Worker Health (TWH) principles. Considerable conceptual ambiguity in the theoretical and empirical peer-reviewed literature was revealed. OBJECTIVE: Develop and validate an assessment tool that organizations can use to prepare for implementation of a participatory TWH program. METHODS: Inclusion criteria identified 29 relevant publications. Analysis revealed eight key organizational characteristics and predictors of successful organizational change. A conceptual framework was created that subject matter experts used to generate …prospective survey items. Items were revised after pretesting with 10 cognitive interviews with upper-level management and pilot-tested in five healthcare organizations. Reliability of the domain subscales were tested based on Cronbach’s α. RESULTS: The Organizational Readiness Tool (ORT) showed adequate psychometric properties and specificity in these eight domains: 1) Current safety/health/well-being programs; 2) Current organizational approaches to safety/health/well-being; 3) Resources available for safety/health/well-being; 4) Resources and readiness for change initiatives to improve safety/health/well-being; 5) Resources and readiness for use of teams in programmatic initiatives; 6) Teamwork; 7) Resources and readiness for employee participation; and 8) Management communication about safety/health/well-being. Acceptable ranges of internal consistency statistics for the domain subscales were observed. CONCLUSIONS: A conceptual model of organizational readiness for change guided development of the Organizational Readiness Tool (ORT), a survey instrument designed to provide actionable guidance for implementing a participatory TWH program. Initial internal consistency was demonstrated following administration at multiple organizations prior to implementation of a participatory Total Worker Health® program. Show more

Keywords: Total worker health, culture, climate, leadership, job design

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-213552

Citation: Work, vol. 69, no. 4, pp. 1317-1342, 2021

Authors: Noack, Isabel | Linden, Michael

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: The workplace can be associated with social stressors like vilification, humiliation, and breach of trust. A common emotional response is embitterment and aggressive behavior. OBJECTIVE: Aim of the study is to investigate the relation between work-related problems, including bullying, and fantasies of aggression. METHODS: Therapists of a department of behavioral medicine routinely had to fill in a diagnostic checklist whenever they saw signs of embitterment and/or aggression in their patients. The type of aggressive fantasies was categorized in no fantasy, minor harm, serious harm without bodily harm, or bodily harm. Independent of this interview, social …workers assessed problems at work (duration of sickness absence, workplace insecurity, bullying at workplace, ability to work, expectation of pension). Patients were also asked to fill in an embitterment questionnaire and the Symptom-Checklist-90. Further sociodemographic and clinical information was taken from the hospital routine documentation. RESULTS: A total of 3211 patients were admitted to the hospital during the observation period. Therapists saw the indication for an in-depth interview because of aggressive fantasies in 102 (3.2%) patients. Aggressive ideations refer to “minor harm” in 27%, “serious harm” in 37%, and “bodily harm” in 35%of patients, respectively. There is a significant relation between the severity of aggressive ideations and bullying and duration of sick leave. There was also a significant correlation between ideas of aggression and feelings of embitterment. CONCLUSION: Aggressive ideations are interrelated with psychosomatic distress and workplace problems and feelings of embitterment. This is of importance for prevention and interventions in regard to workplace bullying. Show more

Keywords: Social stressors, workplace bullying, aggressive ideations, embitterment, non-psychotic patients

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-213554

Citation: Work, vol. 69, no. 4, pp. 1343-1349, 2021

Authors: Oven, Alenka | Domajnko, Barbara

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Creativity is essential to the work of occupational therapy practitioners. Nonetheless, little is known about the way it influences their work satisfaction. OBJECTIVE: This study explores several internal and external factors related to organizational, personal, and socio-relational sources of creativity. Our main hypothesis was that occupational therapy practitioners are more satisfied when creative. METHODS: A mixed-methods study included a qualitative (n  = 22) and a quantitative (n  = 250) phase. Data were gathered using focus group interviews and an online survey, where a novel assessment instrument –the Creativity in Occupational Therapy Questionnaire –was administered. RESULTS: …The synthesis of the results revealed that factors connected with the client, the practitioner’s personal characteristics, the work environment, relationships with colleagues and relationships with superiors all influenced the creativity of occupational therapy practitioners, in negative or positive ways. Professional autonomy and a supportive work environment were found to be important for the creativity of occupational therapy practitioners. Creativity at work had a statistically significant influence on work satisfaction of occupational therapy practitioners (B  = 0.575, t  = 6.267, p  < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS: The results demonstrate the importance of creativity for job satisfaction of occupational therapy practitioners and suggest a dynamic reciprocal relationship between different factors and circumstances that should be considered when fostering creativity at work. Show more

Keywords: Creativeness, work-related wellbeing, autonomy, work environment, occupational therapy

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-213555

Citation: Work, vol. 69, no. 4, pp. 1351-1362, 2021