Training and motivational factors as predictors of job satisfaction and anticipated job retention among implementers of a school-based prevention program.
Despite increasing dissemination of prevention programs, little is known about program implementers, including factors that promote satisfying job roles. Using Self-Determination Theory as a conceptual framework, we surveyed 128 implementers of the widely disseminated Primary Mental Health Project. Implementers reported 7.1 years average experience on the job (range 1-25 years), and 55% had two or more years of college. In a multivariate regression model, predictors of higher job satisfaction were: lower education level; positive perceptions of supervision and continuing education opportunities; and satisfaction at work of needs for autonomy and competence. For implementers with </=3 years experience, satisfaction of competence needs predicted job satisfaction; for implementers with >3 years experience, satisfaction of needs for autonomy and for relatedness predicted job satisfaction. Contrary to expectations, job satisfaction was unrelated to anticipated job retention.
University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, USA. wendi_cross@urmc.rochester.edu
Wendi
W
Cross
Peter A
PA
Wyman
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D005260:Female; D019538:Health Care Surveys; D006282:Health Personnel; D006801:Humans; D007318:Inservice Training; D007588:Job Satisfaction; D008297:Male; D001523:Mental Disorders / Q000517:prevention & control*; D008875:Middle Aged; D009042:Motivation; D015999:Multivariate Analysis; D009518:New York; D010563:Personnel Turnover; D012572:School Health Services; D000078329:Workforce