A Comprehensive Investigation into Full-Scale Characteristics Contributing to Seafarers’ Psychological Security: Egyptian Seafarers as a Case Study

Abstract The mental health of seafarers has long been a major concern for maritime industry stakeholders. It plays a pivotal role in enabling seafarers to cope with onboard anxiety and fear, while preventing costly human errors. Moreover, achieving psychological security is fundamental for seafarers to adapt to their environment and competently fulfil their duties onboard. This research aims to evaluate the psychological security of seafarers in relation to various demographic factors. To achieve this, a novel Psychological Security Scale (PSS) was developed then administered to 248 Egyptian seafarers. Through rigorous quantitative analysis of the collected data, the study revealed that factors related to the work environment and interactions with colleagues were more influential in determining psychological security than family-related aspects, accounting for 28% of the variance (R2=28%). Notably, seafarers who experienced satisfaction in meeting their physiological needs onboard exhibited heightened psychological security. Other factors bolstering psychological security included regular family communication, robust social interactions with crew members, adherence to a scheduled crew change, salary satisfaction, and engagement in physical workouts.