Certified healthy family specialists’ experiences of work and job satisfaction in seoul

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine the Certified Healthy Family Specialists’ (CHFSs) work experiences and job satisfaction in the Seoul Metropolitan Local Healthy Family Support Centers (HFSCs). A total of 107 HFSC staff were recruited through 25 local HFSCs in Seoul. Descriptive statistics and multiple regression was performed to identify the work experience of CHFSs and factors that were associated with their job satisfaction. In terms of the CHFSs’ work experiences, the participants’ work hours were similar to the average Korean working hours, but they often worked on weekends or holidays. Their work flexibility and job satisfaction was a moderate level. CHFSs, however, experienced higher levels of job stress and emotional labor. Of the job satisfaction subcategories, satisfaction with their salary was the lowest, whereas they were the most satisfied with support from their colleagues and supervisors. Regarding factors related to the CHFSs’ job satisfaction, the participants’ socio-demographic characteristics including age and gender and their work-related variables such as work flexibility and job stress were significantly associated with their job satisfaction. This research reveals that a flexible work environment is extremely important for CHFSs in increasing job satisfaction. In addition, HFSCs need to provide employee support programs for CHFSs to reduce their job stress and burden of emotional labor. Increasing the work flexibility for CHFSs would help increase their job satisfaction considering their frequent weekend and holiday work. These findings also suggest that expansion of the organization and employee support system is warranted to help CHFSs remain in HFSCs and to provide quality services to families.