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1 – 10 of over 2000Laurent Yacoub, Sara Abou Ibrahim, Eliane Achy and Eva Nicolas
This study aims to identify the major job stressors that can affect employees’ mental health in the Lebanese commercial banks during the economic turmoil. This study also aims to…
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to identify the major job stressors that can affect employees’ mental health in the Lebanese commercial banks during the economic turmoil. This study also aims to identify the effects of the mental problems on the employees in addition to the role of human resources in promoting and preventing mental well-being at the workplace.
Design/methodology/approach
The authors interviewed 28 bank employees and the semi-structured interviews last for around 50 min, starting by asking the employees a general question about the concept of mental health disorder. The authors used a purposive sampling in which the population sample is selected based on purpose and the characteristics of a specific category of individuals. Moreover, a thematic analysis is used to analyze the data.
Findings
The findings of this study indicate that most of the employees were suffering from many work-related stressors that have negatively affected their mental well-being. The stress and pressures have significantly increased during the economic crisis. However, most of the interviewees were not or rarely supported by their human resources department and their administration to help them get adapted for such a crisis or for the changes at the workplace.
Originality/value
Mental health disorders are present in the daily normal life and in the workplace as well. The banking industry is not an exceptional one.
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Paulo C. Dias, Íris M. Oliveira, Anabela Rodrigues and Ricardo Peixoto
Firefighters are daily confronted with adverse, unpredictable and demanding situations. It is a dangerous profession that puts firefighters at risk of developing burnout. Although…
Abstract
Purpose
Firefighters are daily confronted with adverse, unpredictable and demanding situations. It is a dangerous profession that puts firefighters at risk of developing burnout. Although the literature has already identified personal and work-related factors of burnout, the examination of specific factors explaining burnout among volunteer and career firefighters is still needed. The purpose of this study is to investigate the explaining role of personal and work-related factors on volunteer and career firefighters’ burnout.
Design/methodology/approach
A nonrandom convenience sample of 250 firefighters (67% volunteer; Mage = 31.88) completed a sociodemographic questionnaire, the Oldenburg Burnout Inventory, the Proactive Coping Scale and a standard of living subscale item. Hierarchical multiple linear regression models were tested. Fisher’s criterion was considered, with p-values lower than 0.05 interpreted as statistically significant.
Findings
Personal and work-related factors accounted for 18% of volunteer and 31% of career firefighters’ variations in burnout. Personal factors offered a greater contribution explaining volunteer and career firefighters’ burnout. Still, variations in the role played by age, family responsibilities, proactive coping and satisfaction with standard of living on burnout were found among volunteer and career firefighters. Taking the work-related factors into account, working in rotative shifts constituted a risk factor for career firefighters’ burnout.
Research limitations/implications
This study advances the understanding about the role of personal and work-related factors in volunteer and career firefighters’ burnout.
Originality/value
This study adds information about specific factors explaining burnout among voluntary and career firefighters. It deepens existing knowledge on variations in the role played by age, family responsibilities, work conditions, proactive coping and satisfaction with standard of living on the burnout of volunteer and career firefighters.
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Emre Burak Ekmekcioglu, Hamidah Nabawanuka, Yussif Mohammed Alhassan, John Yaw Akparep and Cansu Ergenç
This paper aims to examine how organizational practices such as climate for conflict management (CCM) and high involvement work practices (HIWPs) reduce the negative consequences…
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to examine how organizational practices such as climate for conflict management (CCM) and high involvement work practices (HIWPs) reduce the negative consequences of workplace bullying (WPB) on work-related depression (WRD).
Design/methodology/approach
Data were collected from 468 full-time employees working in the financial sector in Türkiye by applying a student-recruited sampling strategy. The aforesaid relationships were assessed using SPSS AMOS 29.
Findings
The results indicated that WPB leads to WRD; however, this effect is alleviated by employee perceptions of strong CCM and the administration of HIWPs in workplace settings.
Research limitations/implications
Collecting data from a single source poses the risks of self-report data bias; however, in the future, data may be collected from multiple sources to lessen this potential threat. The study was a cross-sectional study, which makes it hard to make casual inferences; longitudinal data would be more beneficial to establish casual associations.
Practical implications
Business owners and managers can draw from the study results to create a work environment perceived by employees to be fair when dealing with conflicts and the negative vices of bullying in workplaces. Also, organizations may administer practices that empower employees’ confidence and competence to deal with negative persecution in organizations.
Originality/value
Few studies, if any, have focused on examining the moderating effect of CCM and HIWPs in the association between WPB and WRD. Drawing upon conservation of resources theory, the study stands out as it tests the moderating effect of CCM and HIWPs in the connection between WPB and WRD. The findings contribute to the few available studies tackling organizational factors relevant to alleviating the negative consequences of WPB in organizations.
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Syed Aarij Hasan, Afshan Naseem, Muzamil Mahmood, Zunaira Sajjad and Muhammad Zeeshan Mirza
Supervisor phubbing is an increasingly common behavior depicted by supervisors despite the significance of supervisor–subordinate interactions. This study explores the impact of…
Abstract
Purpose
Supervisor phubbing is an increasingly common behavior depicted by supervisors despite the significance of supervisor–subordinate interactions. This study explores the impact of this behavior on workplace incivility and workplace presenteeism and analyzes the mediating role of self-esteem and the moderating role of power distance.
Design/methodology/approach
Data were collected from employees belonging to IT sector. The research was cross-sectional in nature and the data were collected using a structured questionnaire.
Findings
The findings indicate a significant impact of supervisor phubbing on self-esteem, workplace incivility and workplace presenteeism. Additionally, results reveal the mediating role of self-esteem between supervisor phubbing and workplace presenteeism. However, the moderating effect of power distance on the relationship between supervisor phubbing and self-esteem was not supported.
Originality/value
The research contributes to the existing literature and theory, especially in the area of supervisor phubbing and communications management. The study suggests a need for comprehensive approach that involves both organizational policies and individual behavior change.
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Farhina Hameed, Ghazala Ambreen and Younus Awan
Bullying is an uncontrolled incident in today's global workplace and widely recognized as a major issue that has to be explained, addressed and resolved, both from a research and…
Abstract
Purpose
Bullying is an uncontrolled incident in today's global workplace and widely recognized as a major issue that has to be explained, addressed and resolved, both from a research and management aspect. However, it has a devastating impact on teacher performance thus a need to study its impact is crucial and integral. The study's purpose is to look into the impact of workplace bullying (WB) on work engagement (WE), as well as the influence of emotional exhaustion (EE) and psychological distress (PD) as mediators. Further, the study analyzed the role of emotional intelligence (EI) as a moderator for teacher's psychological distress and work engagement.
Design/methodology/approach
A quantitative approach was employed using 63 items and a 7-point Likert scale questionnaire administered to 366 teachers working in schools located in Islamabad. Data has been collected with the time lag method. Confirmatory Factor Analysis is employed to estimate factors whereas Structural Equation Modeling is executed to test hypotheses by using AMOS-23.
Findings
Results suggest that workplace bullying is significantly related to work engagement and this relationship is partially mediated by emotional exhaustion and psychological distress. Further, it confirmed the role of emotional intelligence as a moderator between psychological distress and work engagement.
Research limitations/implications
First of all, single-source data has been used (responses collected from teachers) which may raise issues regarding CMB thus, future studies might collect data at different levels for better generalizability. Secondly, the study is based on a convenience sampling technique thus the hypothesized model may not be generalized to the entire population. Thirdly, the study found four variables in total to measure the effect on work engagement, therefore, individual characteristics or personality traits can better capture the notion.
Practical implications
The finding of the study would be helpful for the educational sector as they are playing an integral part in our society and such dilemmas need to be addressed with possible solutions.
Originality/value
This is one of the few studies which measure the mediator and moderator both consecutively in measuring workplace bullying and work engagement in the educational sector of Pakistan.
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Mariel Alem Fonseca, Naoum Tsolakis and Pichawadee Kittipanya-Ngam
Amidst compounding crises and increasing global population’s nutritional needs, food supply chains are called to address the “diet–environment–health” trilemma in a sustainable…
Abstract
Purpose
Amidst compounding crises and increasing global population’s nutritional needs, food supply chains are called to address the “diet–environment–health” trilemma in a sustainable and resilient manner. However, food system stakeholders are reluctant to act upon established protein sources such as meat to avoid potential public and industry-driven repercussions. To this effect, this study aims to understand the meat supply chain (SC) through systems thinking and propose innovative interventions to break this “cycle of inertia”.
Design/methodology/approach
This research uses an interdisciplinary approach to investigate the meat supply network system. Data was gathered through a critical literature synthesis, domain-expert interviews and a focus group engagement to understand the system’s underlying structure and inspire innovative interventions for sustainability.
Findings
The analysis revealed that six main sub-systems dictate the “cycle of inertia” in the meat food SC system, namely: (i) cultural, (ii) social, (iii) institutional, (iv) economic, (v) value chain and (vi) environmental. The Internet of Things and innovative strategies help promote sustainability and resilience across all the sub-systems.
Research limitations/implications
The study findings demystify the structure of the meat food SC system and unveil the root causes of the “cycle of inertia” to suggest pertinent, innovative intervention strategies.
Originality/value
This research contributes to the SC management field by capitalising on interdisciplinary scientific evidence to address a food system challenge with significant socioeconomic and environmental implications.
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Mia von Knorring, Hanna Karlsson, Elizabeth Stenwall, Matti Johannes Nikkola and Maria Niemi
This study aims to analyse student and teaching staff views on how higher education (HE) can contribute to sustainable development, and to provide examples of how a medical…
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to analyse student and teaching staff views on how higher education (HE) can contribute to sustainable development, and to provide examples of how a medical university has adopted the sustainable development goals (SDGs) as part of its institutional strategies and practises.
Design/methodology/approach
The study is based on participant views from a conference, which aimed to identify actions needed for HE to contribute to the SDGs. More than 500 students, teachers and academic leaders participated at workshops to discuss and reflect on the role of higher education institutions (HEIs) in sustainable development. The discussion key points were recorded on flipcharts, and the analysis builds on all written statements from the nine workshops. Based on the findings from the workshop, steering documents and activities of a medical university were identified as examples of implementation.
Findings
Two overarching interdependent themes were identified and indicated a need to rethink the role not only of HE per se but also that of HEIs at large, to meet the challenges of sustainable development. The study also provides an example of how such organizational change can be practically implemented at a medical university, through the establishment of overarching institutional strategies, funding opportunities and external collaborations.
Practical implications
The findings reflect a “bottom-up” call from students and educational staff for HEIs to step up and contribute to systems change – both through a change in pedagogies, as well as through an institution-wide approach and a shift in the role of HEIs in society.
Originality/value
The study is unique in providing an exemplar of the implementation of sustainable development in HE at a specific medical university.
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This bibliometric mapping study aimed to provide comprehensive insights into the global research landscape of cybernetics. Utilizing the biblioshiny function in R Studio, we…
Abstract
Purpose
This bibliometric mapping study aimed to provide comprehensive insights into the global research landscape of cybernetics. Utilizing the biblioshiny function in R Studio, we conducted an analysis spanning 1958 to 2023, sourcing data from Scopus. This research focuses on key terms such as cybernetics, cybernetics systems, complex adaptive systems, viable system models (VSM), agent-based modeling, feedback loops and complexity systems.
Design/methodology/approach
The analysis leveraged R Studio’s biblioshiny function to perform bibliometric mapping. Keyword searches were conducted within titles, abstracts and keywords, targeting terms central to cybernetics. The timespan, 1958–2023, provides a comprehensive overview of the evolution of cybernetics-related literature. The data were extracted from Scopus to ensure a robust and widely recognized source.
Findings
The results revealed a rich and interconnected global research network in cybernetics. The word cloud analysis highlights prominent terms such as “agent-based modeling,” “complex adaptive systems,” “feedback loop,” “viable system model” and “cybernetics.” Notably, the journal Kybernetes has emerged as a focal point, with significant citations, solidifying its position as a key source within the cybernetics research domain. The bibliometric map provides visual clarity regarding the relationships between various concepts and their evolution over time.
Originality/value
This study contributes original insights by employing advanced bibliometric techniques in R Studio to map the cybernetics research landscape. The comprehensive analysis sheds light on the evolution of key concepts and the global collaborative networks shaping cybernetics research. The identification of influential sources, such as Kybernetes, adds value to researchers seeking to navigate and contribute to the dynamic field of cybernetics. Furthermore, this study highlights that cybernetics not only provides a useful framework for understanding and managing major economic shocks but also offers perspectives for understanding phenomena in various fields such as economics, medicine, environmental sciences and climate change.
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Ebru Baykal Uluoz and Göksenin Inalhan
This paper aims to propose and provide an overview of a model analysis that considers the main spatial design attributes that influence and produce the most relevant salutogenic…
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to propose and provide an overview of a model analysis that considers the main spatial design attributes that influence and produce the most relevant salutogenic outcomes. These results are essential for a healthy work experience, especially in shared workspaces.
Design/methodology/approach
This study departs from the theoretical contributions of the salutogenic approach, principles from supportive design theory, psychosocial supportive design and the environmental demands and resources model. After a scoping literature review covering different fields of workspace design, environmental psychology and evidence-based design of health-care facilities, a conceptual analysis is done on a proposed understanding of work, health and environmental relations to overview spatial attributes that enhance specific salutogenic and well-being-promoting outcomes needed for a healthy work experience.
Findings
The model of analysis, as a theoretical element that helps create methodological tools, combined with the application of a post occupancy evaluation, is thought to assist architects, designers, workspace owners and stakeholders in their new designs or to evaluate existing ones.
Originality/value
Studies on defining spatial attributes and their intended salutogenic outcomes have been formally done in health-care facilities. However, applying this idea to shared workspaces is something new and is expected to contribute to their design and evaluation, especially if the notion of environmental demands and resources is complemented.
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John M. Violanti and Michael E. Andrew
Policing requires atypical work hours. The present study examined associations between shiftwork and pregnancy loss among female police officers.
Abstract
Purpose
Policing requires atypical work hours. The present study examined associations between shiftwork and pregnancy loss among female police officers.
Design/methodology/approach
Participants were 91 female officers with a prior history of at least one pregnancy. Shiftwork information was assessed using daily electronic payroll work records. Any prior pregnancy loss (due to miscarriage) was self-reported. Logistic regression estimated odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for main associations.
Findings
On average, the officers were 42 years old, had 14 years of service, and 56% reported a prior pregnancy loss. Officers who worked dominantly on the afternoon or night shift during their career had 96% greater odds of pregnancy loss compared to those on day shift (OR = 1.96, 95% CI:0.71–5.42), but the result was not statistically significant. A 25% increase in percent of hours worked on night shift was associated with 87% increased odds of pregnancy loss (OR = 1.87, 95% CI:1.01–3.47). Associations were adjusted for demographic and lifestyle factors. Objective assessment of shiftwork via electronic records strengthened the study. Limitations include small sample size, cross-sectional design and lack of details on pregnancy loss or the timing of pregnancy loss with regard to shiftwork.
Research limitations/implications
The present study is preliminary and cross-sectional.
Practical implications
With considerable further inquiry and findings into this topic, results may have an impact on police policy affecting shift work and pregnant police officers.
Social implications
Implication on the health and welfare of police officers.
Originality/value
To our knowledge, there are no empirical studies which associate shiftwork and pregnancy loss among police officers. This preliminary study suggested an association between shiftwork and increased odds of pregnancy loss and points out the need for further study.
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