Work satisfaction and health at work: on theoretical framework and method

Abstract

This article aims to assist in the analysis of the relationships between work satisfaction and health at work. Based on a bibliographical review, this paper presents selected concepts and theoretical models of work satisfaction and their relationship to workers health. The chosen theoretical framework summarizes the evolution of concepts about work satisfaction, starting from those that regard workers only in terms of direct reactions to external factors and work satisfaction only depending upon wages, up to those concepts that emphasize interactions among psychosocial factors at work and one´s subjectivity as crucial for satisfaction levels and as such, influencing workers' health. The association between work satisfaction and health at work, specially regarding mental health, has been established by cross-sectional studies. However, there is a need of more longitudinal studies in order to confirm causes of such associations, as well as more qualitative studies that look into the dynamics of these associations. Finally, directives are presented for implementing and evaluating changes in the design or changes of work organization, focused on psychosocial factors at work, in order to improve levels of satisfaction and, as such, workers' health and health promotion.