Affiliations: Department of Rehabilitation, Faculty of Medicine,
Laval University, Québec, Canada | Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, Faculty
of Medicine, Laval University, Québec, Canada | Department of Industrial Relations, Faculty of Social
Sciences, Laval University, Québec, Canada
Note: [] Address for correspondence: Louis Trudel erg, PhD, Department of
Rehabilitation, Faculty of Medicine, Laval University, 1050, av. de la
Médecine, Québec (Québec), Canada, G1V 0A6. Tel.: +1 418 656 2131
EXT. 3169; Fax: +1 418 656 5476; E-mail: louis.trudel@rea.ulaval.ca
Abstract: Studies conducted with the JDC (job demand-control) or ERI
(effort-reward imbalance) models highlight the links between constraints in the
psychosocial work environment and psychological distress. However, the
underlying mechanisms are not very well understood. The present participatory
qualitative study explored these mechanisms with a view to identifying both the
processes at work in these relationships and some targets for problem
prevention. This investigation was conducted with white-collar workers from a
public service organisation within one Canadian province (Quebec) who
participated in six discussion groups during an intervention designed to reduce
psychosocial environment constraints. The data gathered in these groups was
subjected to content analysis through thematic categorization. The findings
indicate that psychosocial constraints take root in situations that adversely
affect subjective dimensions relating to personal and professional experience.
An interpretive model is proposed on the basis of these findings, which helps
to elucidate the dynamic relationships that exist among the various aspects of
work experience that can lead to psychological distress. From this model, some
targets for problem prevention have emerged.
Keywords: Psychosocial risk factors, subjective work experience, psychological distress, work stress, mental health, intervention
