Developing a Prediction Model for Post-traumatic Stress in Firefighters

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to explain the post-traumatic stress (PTS) of firefighters by developing a hypothetical model based on the stress-coping-adaptation model and applying it to the PTS of firefighters. The data were collected during December 1-31, 2016 from 136 firefighters working in three fire stations in G province of Korea and analyzed using SPSS/WIN 21.0 and AMOS 21.0 programs. The fitness of the modified model was improved as X2/DF=1.56, RMSEA=.01, GFI=.99, AGFI=.99, CFI=.99, IFI=.99 and NFI=.99. In the modified model, the effect size of the variables directly affecting the PTS of firefighters were in the order of job-related stress, coping strategies, and experiences of traumatic events, while the perceived social support had an indirect effect on PTS through coping strategies. In order to prevent and manage the experiences of traumatic events of firefighters with PTS, coping strategies should be improved to properly handle the traumatic experiences. In addition, it is desirable to develop strategies and systems to reduce job-related stress and strengthen the level of social support based on the affinity of the organization.