Impact of the Psychosocial Work Environment on Employee Performance: The Mediating Role of Work Stress and Mental Workload among Correctional Officers

Objective: This study examines the influence of the psychosocial work environment and mental workload on employee performance, with work stress as a mediating variable, in the context of the Samarinda Correctional Center. Methods and Materials: Using a quantitative approach, 40 employees were selected through the Total Sampling technique, and data were collected using validated scales measuring psychosocial work environment, employee performance, work stress, and mental workload. Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) with Smart PLS was employed for data analysis due to its suitability for handling complex mediation effects and small sample sizes. Findings: Results indicate that mental workload and the psychosocial work environment significantly affect work stress and employee performance, with work stress partially mediating these relationships. Effect size calculations show that mental workload has a stronger impact on work stress (β = X, f² = Y) compared to the psychosocial work environment (β = X, f² = Y). Conclusion: These findings align with the Job Demand-Control Model and the Effort-Reward Imbalance Model, reinforcing the role of workplace stressors in shaping employee outcomes. However, contextual factors specific to correctional facilities may influence these relationships, necessitating further study. This research contributes to the literature by providing empirical evidence on workplace conditions affecting employee performance in high-stress environments. Practical implications suggest that organizations should implement targeted interventions such as workload optimization, leadership training, and structured mental health support programs to foster a healthier work environment and sustain employee performance.