Self-regulation of Recovery From Work

Abstract

Background: The study aims at evaluating a proposed model of self-regulation of recovery from work. Three variables, “recovery related awarenessâ€, “recovery motivation†and “ability to detach from work†are assumed to affect self-regulation and consequently recovery outcome. Methods: In two cross-sectional studies (n=308/383; study 1&2) the association of these recovery related variables with fatigue, exhaustion and sleep were investigated in employed individuals. In one longitudinal study (n=103; study 3), the impact of these variables on the change of well-being during a 12 hour day-shift in nurses was addressed. Data was analyzed using correlational and/or regression analyses. Findings: In study 1&2, awareness, motivation and detachment were negatively associated with prolonged fatigue and emotional exhaustion and positively with quality of sleep. In study 3, recovery motivation dampened the increase of distress and the decrease of vigor observed during the day. Discussion: The results provide first evidence for the validity of the model of recovery self-regulation from work. The model provides a theoretical underpinning for the assessment and training of recovery from work.