Workplace spirituality, psychological well-being and mediating role of subjective stress

Abstract

Purpose The purpose of this study is to assess the impact of spirituality on subjective stress and psychological well-being (PWB). Additionally, the study also examines the mediating role of stress in the spirituality – well-being relationship. Design/methodology/approach The study is quantitative in nature. Data were collected from 322 secondary school teachers using a structured questionnaire. Partial least squares based structural equation modelling was used to analyse the data. Findings Results indicated a positive relationship between spirituality and PWB but an inverse relationship between job stresses. Also, subjective stress was found to be a significant mediator in the relationship between spirituality and well-being. Social implications The inner resource of spirituality among teachers can be tapped to cope with perceived stress levels thereby augmenting a sense of well-being. Psychologically clear and receptive minds are indispensable in the process of teaching. Originality/value The present study combines the evolving construct of workplace spirituality with PWB and subjective stress, which are under explored in the social sector.

Work Stress and its Impact on Employees’ Psychological Strain

“…This definition is in accordance with the definition by the World Health Organisation, which described occupational or job stress as "the response people may have when presented with work demands and pressures that are not matched to their knowledge and abilities, and which challenge their ability to cope" (World Health Organization, 2020). This definition clearly demonstrates that stress occurs when employees' capabilities do not meet what is ultimately expected of them (Mahipalan & Sheena, 2019). More definitions of stress from previous studies are presented in Table 1.…”

“…A distressingly high number of mental health issues among the working-age group have recently been observed. Wide studies focus on work stress and job satisfaction; despite the importance of these variables, the focus is now shifting to employees' emotional and mental health (Mahipalan & Sheena, 2019). The mental health issue is primarily caused by work stress resulting in reduced employees' productivity, tense relationships, and loss of mental calmness (Sharma & Srivastava, 2020).…”

Innovative behaviour in religious-based theory of planned behaviour perspective

“…Afsar and Badir (2017) showed that employees' workplace spirituality was positively related to self and IB. Spirituality could be an important element in managing the work attitude of Generation Y workers creatively (Mahipalan & Sheena, 2019). As a result, the following hypothesis could be formulated: H1: Spiritual leadership has a positive significant effect on innovative behaviour.…”

“…These results imply that an employee's experience of spirituality in the workplace has an impact on his perception, which in turn helps engage him to display IB more often. Mahipalan and Sheena (2019) showed that there was a significant relationship between spirituality and work and organisational engagement. Based on the findings, it is reasonable to assume that spirituality could be an important element in managing the work attitudes of creative Generation Y workers.…”

Exploring Linkages Between Workplace Spirituality and Occupational Stress Among Indian Police Personnel

“…However, the empirical studies examining the impact of spirituality in the workplace in managing occupational stress are sparse. Also, the studies identifying the linkages between WPS and OS have majorly examined academicians, students, nursing and other professionals (Bell et al, 2012; Chand & Koul, 2012; Csiernik & Adams, 2012; Daniel, 2015; Mahipalan & Suresh, 2019; Sharafi et al, 2014; Tischler et al, 2002). The present study explores the linkages between WPS and OS in a stress-prone occupation like policing, which is imperative for maintaining peace and order in any society.…”