Industrial and Organizational Psychology Studies

Providing a Model for Mental Well-being and Psychological Health in Oil Company Satellite Employees

Document Type : Research Article

Authors

kamran malekpour lapari 1
azam bakhtyarirenani 2

1 PhD in Higher Education Management, Faculty of Management, Kharazmi University, Tehran, Iran

2 2. Assistant Professor, Department of Educational Sciences, Payame Noor University, Tehran, Iran

https://doi.org/10.22055/jiops.2025.46122.1432
Abstract
Introduction
The oil and gas industry, as one of the primary sources of employment, is subject to various stressors that significantly impact the mental and physical health of workers, particularly rotational employees in operational zones. Shift work and harsh environmental conditions, such as prolonged separation from family, high job demands, and exposure to physical and chemical hazards, contribute to increased stress, anxiety, occupational burnout, and physical health issues, including cardiovascular diseases and diabetes. These challenges not only undermine individual well-being but also lead to reduced productivity, increased absenteeism, and higher organizational costs. Global studies have demonstrated that working in operational areas can result in psychosocial and physical health problems. However, in Iran, comprehensive research on the mental health of shiftwork employees in the National Iranian Oil Company has been lacking. Most existing studies have focused on general occupational stress, with limited attention given to strategies for enhancing mental well-being. Therefore, examining the factors influencing the mental health of these workers and developing effective management strategies is essential to mitigate adverse consequences and improve workforce productivity.
 
Method
This study employing a qualitative approach and the meta-synthesis method based on the Sandelowski & Barroso (2007) framework. The aim of this method was to synthesize findings from related studies to generate new knowledge and provide a comprehensive perspective on mental well-being and psychological health among rotational workers. The statistical population comprised 453 scientific sources from domestic and international databases, published between 2010 and 2024 (1390–1402 SH), identified through a systematic keyword search. Ultimately, 30 credible sources were purposefully selected based on specific criteria, including thematic relevance to workers’ mental health, publication in reputable journals, and source authenticity. The validity of the study was assessed by expert opinions, and reliability was measured using Cohen's Kappa coefficient. Data were collected and analyzed through documentary research methods. The study was conducted following the seven-step meta-synthesis model of Sandelowski & Barroso.
 
Results
This study aimed to develop a model for mental well-being and psychological health among shiftwork employees in an oil industry. To achieve this, 30 relevant studies were reviewed and analyzed. The findings revealed that the final model comprises a set of influential factors categorized into five main dimensions. Macro-organizational factors, such as modernity and economic conditions, play a crucial role in workers’ mental well-being. In today’s world, mere access to material resources is insufficient; rather, a sense of security, happiness, and social satisfaction is equally essential. Psychosocial factors, including work-life balance, quality of work life, motivation, social security, social trust, and social capital, directly impact workers' mental health. Research suggests that shifting the focus from illness to psychological well-being enhances the quality of work life. Organizational factors also play a significant role in this model, encompassing workplace fairness, organizational management, human resource activities, rotational work culture, and workplace safety. Studies emphasize that effective human resource management and a positive organizational culture have a profound impact on employees' mental well-being. Furthermore, individual and occupational factors, such as personality traits, psychological skills, and job characteristics, also influence job satisfaction and mental health.
 
Discussion
Overall, the study findings highlight the necessity of addressing economic, social, organizational, and individual dimensions to improve the psychological well-being of shiftwork employees. Implementing supportive policies and enhancing workplace quality can significantly reduce stress and increase job satisfaction.

Keywords

Mental well-being
psychological health
satellite employees
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Industrial and Organizational Psychology Studies
Volume 12, Issue 1
July 2025
Pages 81-98

  • Receive Date 13 September 2024
  • Revise Date 02 February 2025
  • Accept Date 14 March 2025

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