Supporting individuals returning to work after treatment led to the development of a quality of working life questionnaire (QWLQ-CS)1. The aim of this study was to understand the role of positive psychological processes in QWLQ-CS by exploring dispositional mindfulness (FFMQ)2and psychological capital (PsyCap)3.
Cancer survivors participated in this mixed method investigation, using questionnaires (n=30) and interviews (n=9).
The reliability of each subscale was good (Cronbach alpha 0.72-0.93) with the exception of self-efficacy (0.35) which was subsequently excluded from further analysis. PsyCap accounted for 56% of the variability in the QWLQ-CS [F(3,26)=13.46, p<0.001]. There was a significant moderate relationship between FFMQ and QWLQ-CS (r=0.39). The FFMQ accounted for 12% of the variability of QWLQ-CS [F(1,28)=5.1, p=0.32)].
Interviews revealed a strong focus on developing a new sense of self, and the important role of social interaction and workplace resources.
Dispositional Mindfulness and Psychological Capital predict QWLQ-CS. The interviews’ stories of returning to work illustrate the need for greater awareness of how to respond to and support cancer survivors so they can thrive in the workplace.
1. de Jong, BMC Cancer, 2018. 18(1).
2. Baer, Assessment, 2008. 15, 329-342.
3. Schaufeli, Journal of Happiness Studies, 2002. 71-92.