The effects of employment and unemployment on psychological well-being in Australian clerical workers: Gender differences

Abstract

This study investigates gender differences in the psychological well-being of employed and unemployed Australian clerical workers. One hundred and nine subjects were divided into four groups according to gender and employment status. Data were collected using a survey form comprising demographic data, Coopersmith Self Esteem Inventory, Beck Depression and Hopelessness Scales, General Health Ques tionnaire, Life Satisfaction Scale, and the Profile of Mood States Questionnaire. A Discriminant Function analysis revealed three functions which differentiated the four groups. Gender differences were found in all four groups on different functions. Employed males were considered to have psychological well-being (high levels of self-esteem and vigour, and low levels of psychological distress, tension, fatigue, and confusion). Unemployed males had low levels of self-esteem and vigour, and high levels of psychological distress, tension, and fatigue. Unemployed females had low levels of self-esteem and vigour, and confusion. Employed females had high levels of psychological distress, tension and fatigue, and confusion. Results are discussed in terms of gender role identity and adaptation to unemployment. Implications exist for training interventions with the unemployed and policy development for employed women.