Decent Work dimensions as a demand and/or a resource: Association with workers’ health indicators

<ns3:p>Background Decent Work (DW), a key component of the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, encompasses seven dimensions reflecting people's work aspirations. Based on the Job Demands and Resources (JD-R) theory, this study starts from a framework in which these dimensions can function as resources and demands. This study aims to explore the relationship between health outcomes (physical pain, anxiety, depression, and exhaustion) and Decent Work Demands and Resources (DWDaR) profiles. Methods The study employs a cross-sectional quantitative design with data from Spain (n=1313) and Portugal (n=494). Data was gathered using socio-demographic surveys, self-reported health indicators, and the Decent Work Demands and Resources Questionnaire (DWDaRQ). Results Four DWDaR profiles were identified through TwoStep cluster analysis: Demanding, Rich, Poor, and Resourceful DW. "Adequate working time and workload" emerged as the most prevalent demand, while "Fundamental principles and values at work" was the most prevalent resource. ANOVA and chi-square tests revealed that Demanding and Rich profiles were linked to higher levels of negative health outcomes, whereas Resourceful and Poor profiles were linked to lower levels. Demanding and Poor profiles were more prevalent in the Portuguese sample, while the Rich and Resourceful profiles held more individuals with higher education. Conclusions This study is significant as it extends the JD-R theory to the DW field and addresses literature gaps by adopting a person-centered approach. It offers practical implications for organizations, policymakers, and future research, highlighting the importance of balancing job demands and resources to promote employee health and well-being.</ns3:p>