Psychological Capital And Mental Health Of Pakistani Rescue Workers: The Role Of Professional Quality Of Life

Abstract

The current study aimed to examine the role of the dimensions of professional quality of life (ProQOL) in the relationship between psychological capital (PsyCap) and the mental health of rescue workers. A cross-sectional survey was conducted, consisting of a sample of (N = 502) male rescue workers (firefighters; emergency medical staff; ambulance drivers; emergency/disaster rescue workers; shift/station in charge) from different cities in Punjab, Pakistan. Instruments used in the present research included Urdu versions of the Mental Health Inventory, PsyCap Questionnaire, and ProQOL Scale. Findings indicated that PsyCap was significantly positively related to mental health and compassion satisfaction, whereas, significantly negatively related to burnout. Path analysis showed that dimensions of ProQOL (burnout and compassion fatigue) except compassion satisfaction significantly mediated the relationship between PsyCap and mental health. The findings concluded that rescue workers exhibited a higher level of compassion, satisfaction, PsyCap and mental health. The findings provide support and underscore the need for interventions aimed at enhancing personal resources (efficacy, hope, resilience, and optimism), ProQOL and the mental health of rescue workers.