PSYCHOLOGICAL STRESS EVALUATION IN AQUACULTURE WORKERS USING MIXED METHODS

Abstract

Workers in aquaculture engage in tasks that are physically and mentally strenuous, encountering potential biological, weather-related, and repetitive task hazards. There is a conspicuous gap in research pertaining to their stress profiles. This research was intended to assess stress levels using a mixed-methods approach that integrated quantitative and qualitative data. In total, 350 aquaculture workers in three coastal regions were surveyed using a questionnaire focusing on five stress dimensions: workload and physical strain, emotional burnout, work-life balance issues, and sleep-related difficulties. Both exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses supported the three-factor model comprising workload, burnout, and sleep disturbance, with strong internal reliability (Cronbach's alpha 0.79 to 0.86). Convergent and discriminant validity were established by AVE, CR, and MSV. Qualitative interviews corroborated these results, shedding light on exhaustion, emotional burnout, and insufficient recuperative time. These findings demonstrate the aquaculture industry's lack of effective stress management and occupational health tailored to the specific needs of the industry.