How does work support influence the relationship between stress and job satisfaction? (A Quantitative Study of Social Workers in the UK)

There is increasing concern about the high rates of turnover within the social work profession in the UK and the high-stress levels encountered by social workers. It is hence important to understand the factors that influence the manifestation of stress and job satisfaction. This quantitative study administered standardised instruments to 104 social workers through an online survey to assess the perception of stress, job satisfaction, work support, role ambiguity, and role conflict. The Job Demands-Resources (JD-R) theory provided the conceptual framework for the study. Statistical analyses identified significant correlations among the study variables. Role ambiguity and job satisfaction predicted the manifestation of stress, while job satisfaction was influenced by both the extent of perceived stress as well as role conflict. Further, work support partially mediated the influence of stress on job satisfaction. We discuss implications for reducing work-related stress and enhancing job satisfaction.