Development of a New Instrument for Measuring Psychological Factors Specific to the Activity of Seafarers

Researchers are increasingly recognizing the importance of seafarers' psychological well-being in maritime contexts, reflecting the profound mental health challenges associated with life at sea. Seafarers endure extended periods of isolation, demanding work schedules, and restricted access to psychosocial support, all of which contribute to elevated levels of anxiety, depression, and fatigue. Although these issues are well-documented, the field lacks a standardized psychological assessment tool specifically designed for this occupational group. Existing instruments, such as the Psychological General Well-Being Index (PGWBI) and the Symptom Checklist-90 (SCL-90), offer limited insight into the unique stressors faced by seafarers. Consequently, this paper advocates for the development of a psychometrically sound, occupation-specific psychological scale to assess seafarers’ mental health. Based on a comprehensive literature review, the study identifies core psychological constructs relevant to seafaring, including occupational stress, isolation, resilience, job satisfaction, and mental health symptoms. The proposed methodology encompasses a multi-phase approach, involving construct identification, item development, scale validation through exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses, and pilot testing with a representative sample of seafarers. Cultural and contextual sensitivity is emphasized throughout, acknowledging the diversity of maritime crews. The development of this specialized tool is crucial for improving mental health interventions, enhancing operational safety, and supporting the long-term well-being of maritime personnel. A validated instrument would enable maritime organizations, researchers, and policymakers to systematically evaluate psychological risks, implement timely support mechanisms, and foster healthier work environments. Furthermore, it holds the potential to inform policy reforms and occupational health practices, ensuring that seafarers receive the targeted mental health care they require. In doing so, this research aims to valorise the importance of psychology in maritime affairs in order to promote sustainable workforce well-being across the global maritime industry.