Exploring the Role of Workplace Identity in Mitigating Stress Among Medical Laboratory Professionals

The following qualitative study focused on the role of workplace identity in mitigating stress among Canadian medical laboratory professionals. The research highlights three years of peer support sessions with a focus on messaging regarding role, identity, and mental health. The authors propose relationships between professional identity theory, social cognitive career theory (SCCT) and stress buffering theory to demonstrate that medical laboratory professionals’ enjoyment of their role and strong identification with their role act as protective factors against stress and burnout. The authors propose a link between the three theories as an explanation for the results. Clear themes are found within the data, specifically related to love, patient care, and compassion. The study also proposes tangible actions for employers to take to develop these relationships further and assist in empowering medical laboratory professionals. These include showcasing the skills, knowledge, and abilities of medical laboratory professionals. Additionally, within the lab, promotional materials and messaging that outline their strengths could be prominently displayed.