A Research into the Mechanism of Job Stress' Influence on Employees' Wellbeing from the Perspective of Cognitive Evaluation—The Role of Work-related Rumination and Trait Mindfulness

Abstract

Abstract: Drawing on the transaction theory of stress and perseverative cognition model, this paper introduces work-related rumination and trait mindfulness as intermediate variables. Based on 385 longitudinal questionnaire data analysis, this study finds the following results. Individuals will have challenge, hindrance and threat appraisal on stressors. Challenging stressors mainly lead to challenge appraisal, and hindrance stressors mainly lead to threat appraisal. Challenge appraisal positively predicts problem-solving pondering, while hindrance and threat appraisal positively predict affective rumination. The chain mediating relationship of "stressor → cognitive appraisal → perseverative cognition → wellbeing" is established. Trait mindfulness enhances individuals' positive appraisal of challenging stressors and weakens individuals' negative appraisal of such stressors, but the cognitive appraisal of hindrance stressors is not affected by mindfulness. Mindfulness can transform individuals' positive appraisal of stressors into positive perseverative cognition, and slow down individuals' negative appraisal of stressors into negative perseverative cognition, which is ultimately conducive to improving wellbeing. The study reveals the complex mechanism of work stress' influence on employees' wellbeing, and provides inspiration for managers to formulate targeted stress management strategies.

Key words: work pressure, work-related rumination, wellbeing, mindfulness

Feng Xingyu, Han Ping. A Research into the Mechanism of Job Stress' Influence on Employees' Wellbeing from the Perspective of Cognitive Evaluation—The Role of Work-related Rumination and Trait Mindfulness[J]. Management Review, 2024, 36(1): 175-187.

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