[Mental health of workers and the effects of behavioral traits -validation of causal model using covariance structure...

To clarify the mental health factors of workers and to verify the causal correlation between their behavioral traits and mental health.

We asked 1,425 subjects working at private enterprises and local government offices, as well as members of labor unions, to anonymously respond to questionnaires.

We examined the causal influence of workers' behavioral traits on negative mental health by covariance structure analysis. Workers'other-reward oriented self-image variables indicated by behavioral traits, such as self-repression and interpersonal dependency, directly affected negative mental health. Workers'perceived emotional support indirectly affects their mental health through self-image variables and perceived stressors. Additionally, simultaneous multi-population analysis verified that different populations did not show differences, and maintained the same structure.

Other-reward oriented self-image directly affected negative mental health, and its impact was the largest. Therefore, to prevent negative mental health, the results indicate that it is important to shift self-image to a self-reward oriented one. Additionally, the results indicate the need for effort to perceive emotional support at the workplace and heighten the ability of self-expression and feelings of self-esteem. This can encourage changing to a self-reward oriented self-image and a preventive effect is expected.