Investigating the influence of leadership styles on work stress, job satisfaction and work engagement of health care professionals within the Khomas region, Namibia
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Date
2022
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University of Namibia
Abstract
Within the sub-Sahara context where resources are limited, strong and committed
leadership is important for the positive functioning of health care facilities. This
study investigated the impact of leadership styles on the work stress, job satisfaction and work engagement of health care professionals within the Khomas region, Namibia.
This study aimed at determining the prevalent leadership styles, work stress levels, job satisfaction and work engagement of health care professionals within the Namibian healthcare sector. Furthermore, this study provided practical recommendations to help improve medical care by enhancing the leadership styles,
engagement, job satisfaction and decreasing work stress levels of medical
professionals. A quantitative research approach via a questionnaire was used to
collect data on the biographical details, leadership styles, work stress, job satisfaction and work engagement of employees. The sample consisted of n=179 healthcare professionals working within private and state facilities within the quantitative research method. Correlations were found between the subconstructs of leadership styles and the subconstructs work stress, job satisfaction and work engagement.
Negative relationships were found between intellectual stimulation and role ambiguity (r = -.37, p ˂ 0.05; medium effect); intellectual stimulation and coworkers (r = -.37, p ˂ 0.05; medium effect); transformational leadership and coworkers (r = -.31, p ˂ 0.05; medium effect); laissez-faire and dedication (r = -.31, p ˂ 0.05; medium effect); laissez-faire and work engagement (r = -.30, p ˂ 0.05; medium effect). Laissez-faire reported a positive relationship with work stress (r = .42, p ˂ 0.05; medium effect). Practical implementations include encouraging supportive leadership, implementation of protocols to reduce stress levels and recognising high performance can increase engagement. Social projects and prioritising the physical and mental health of employees may enhance the well-being of employees. This novel study is the first of its kind to investigate these dimensions within the healthcare sector in the Khomas region and adds to the existing knowledge within the healthcare sector for future researchers. This study will assist healthcare facilities to develop interventions to enhance job satisfaction, work engagement and decrease job stress.
Description
A mini thesis submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the Degree of Master of Arts (Industrial Psychology)