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The relation between pathological worrying and fatigue in a working population
H Andrea1, A J H M Beurskens, Ij Kant
1Department of General Practice, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands. helene.andrea@deviersprong.nl
Journal of Psychosomatic Research
|November 3, 2004
Summary
Pathological worry and fatigue are linked in employees. While distinct, worry may mediate fatigue rather than directly cause it, especially when considering their cross-sectional relationship.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Health
- Psychology
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Pathological worry and fatigue are prevalent issues in the working population.
- Understanding the relationship between these two constructs is crucial for employee well-being.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the cross-sectional and longitudinal associations between pathological worry and fatigue.
- To determine if pathological worry is a risk factor or a mediating factor for fatigue.
Main Methods:
- Utilized the Penn State Worry Questionnaire (PSWQ) for pathological worry and the Checklist Individual Strength (CIS) for fatigue.
- Examined psychometric properties and explored associations in employees with very low or very high fatigue levels.
- Analyzed both cross-sectional and longitudinal data over a 10-month period.
Main Results:
- Pathological worry and fatigue are distinct but associated constructs.
- Pathological worry showed a cross-sectional association with fatigue.
- Longitudinal prediction of fatigue by worry diminished after accounting for the cross-sectional link, suggesting a mediating role.
Conclusions:
- Pathological worry and fatigue are associated, even though they can be measured as separate constructs.
- The cross-sectional association must be considered when examining longitudinal relationships.
- Pathological worry may function as a mediator rather than a direct risk factor for fatigue.