THE EFFECTS OF JOB DEMANDS AND RESOURCES ON EMPLOYEE MENTAL WELL-BEING: A COMPARATIVE STUDY OF TEACHERS AND DOCTORS IN PAKISTAN

Abstract

Background: In Pakistan, teachers and doctors are services related professionals that play
crucial roles in serving society, yet they face distinct challenges in their respective
professions. The work demands placed on them and the resources available to manage
these demands can significantly impact their mental well-being. However, there is a limited
understanding of how these job characteristics uniquely affect the mental health of
professionals in these fields. Objective: Keeping in view the paucity of literature on
comparative examination of these two professions in Pakistan this study aims to examine
the dynamic linkages between job demands available resources and mental well-being of
teachers and doctors in Pakistan. By comparing these two professions, this study aims to
highlight how different job characteristics influence employee mental health in these
helping professions. Methods: A cross-sectional quantitative design was adopted, with
data collected through an online self-reported questionnaire distributed via social media
platforms. The data was analyzed using descriptive statistics and inferential techniques,
including Structural Equation Modeling conducted with AMOS. Results: The findings
indicate significant positive relationships between job resources and mental well-being,
while job demands show negative relationships with both resources and mental well-being.
Conclusion: The study found that job demands are recognized as workplace hazards that
negatively impact the mental health of teachers and doctors in Pakistan. Therefore, it is
crucial to address this issue at both individual and institutional levels through tailored
strategies to enhance mental well-being in these professions.