Effect of change on psychological performance in rescue services personnel in Finland – a qualitative interview study

Rescue services work is in constant change, yet operational responsibilities in high-stakes, unpredictable environments remain. In this study, we are interested in individual psychological performance, conceptualized as a balance between the challenges or threats perceived in a situation and one’s sense of capability and resources, with the goal of successfully completing tasks. We explored the effects of working amidst continuous change on individual psychological performance and its maintenance among rescue service personnel with three research questions: (1) What kinds of changes have occurred in the work of rescue services? (2) What effects does work amidst changes have on individual psychological performance from the perspective of rescue service personnel? and (3) How can individual psychological performance be supported amidst changes from the perspective of rescue service personnel? This was a qualitative interview study with fire officers and fire sub-officers (n = 18) from five rescue departments across Finland. The data was collected using semi-structured individual interviews in 2023 and 2024. Inductive content analysis was used. For the first research question, the results were categorized into three categories: Evolving roles and pressures in rescue services; Reassignment of work locations; and Societal changes reflected in rescue services. The results of the second research question formed three categories: Change as a driver of declining workplace cohesion from leadership to the broader work community; Change causes multidimensional external and internal strains that challenge mental resources; and Change creates growth potential. For the third research question, two categories were formed: Clear people-focused leadership is essential when implementing change; and The significance of maintaining a positive and proactive mindset. The closeness of the rescue service community should be supported, even during times of change, as well as the personnel’s willingness to develop. The changes have brought many new demands, and the uncertainty of one’s own competence and future role threatens psychological performance. The increasing demands highlight the need for stronger leadership support, underscoring the importance of people-focused leadership skills in rescue services. The usability of the IT systems that currently cause a significant workload should also be improved to better support psychological performance.