Risk Perceptions of Health Care Workers and Occupational Health Experts on Psychological Distress: A Qualitative
Lima M Emal1, Sietske J Tamminga, Annechien Beumer
1From the Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam, Noord-Holland, the Netherlands (L.M.E., S.J.T., A.B., S.K., F.G.S., H.F.v.d.M.); and Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit van Amsterdam, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam, Noord-Holland, the Netherlands (D.R.T.).
Background:
The objectives of this study are to explore healthcare workers' (HCWs') mental models regarding psychological distress and to compare these with that of experts.
Methods:
Semistructured interviews were conducted (n = 28 HCWs, n = 13 experts). The topic list encompassed risk perception, early stress symptoms, causes, consequences, and preventive measures of psychological distress. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and thematically analyzed using MAXQDA (VERBI Software, Berlin).
Results:
Similarities were found in risk perception, symptoms, causes, and consequences. Differences arose in HCWs' reliance on personal experiences and values versus experts' scientific perspective. Preventive measures also showed discrepancies. Variation within HCWs was found on all aspects of their mental model.
Conclusion:
For effective preventive interventions regarding psychological distress, experts should consider HCWs' personal values and experiences, acknowledging the variation in their mental models. This approach may enhance HCWs' engagement in preventive behaviors.
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