BIOMARKER ANALYSIS OF STRESS IN FISHERIES LABORERS WITH PSYCHOLOGICAL CORRELATES

Abstract

This research investigates the relationship between physiological stress indicators and psychological nature-relatedness among fisheries workers in coastal and marine societies. Although connectedness to nature has been associated with enhanced well-being and supportive environmental actions, its possible connection with occupational stress among marine-dependent populations is largely unstudied. A mixed-methods study was conducted with 528 fisheries workers from five coastal regions. Stress was evaluated through salivary cortisol measurement, psychological connectedness through the Nature Relatedness Scale (NRS), and Environmental Identity Inventory (EID). The study demonstrates that individuals with stronger connectedness to nature tend to have lower levels of stress biomarkers and greater psychological resilience. There were pronounced differences among demographic categories, with older age, lower occupational status, and traditional fishing habits associated with stronger ecological connectedness and lower stress biomarkers. These results highlight the importance of incorporating ecological identity and occupational health into marine conservation and occupational wellness planning.