Recovery after work experiences, employee well-being and intent to quit

Abstract

Purpose – A growing body of research suggests that psychological experiences related to recovery after work may reduce employee fatigue and exhaustion and improve well-being. The purpose of this paper is to extend this literature by examining several correlates and consequences of four recovery experiences: psychological detachment, relaxation, mastery, and control. Design/methodology/approach – Data were collected from 290 nursing staff working in hospitals using a questionnaire study and well-established measures. Hierarchical regression analyses were used to test the hypotheses. Findings – The results suggest that the four recovery experiences were, with one exception, positively and significantly correlated. Personal demographic variables (e.g. work status and level of education) had relationships with the use of particular recovery experiences. Passion was positively related to the use of mastery and control, while work intensity was negatively associated with the use of psychological detachment and relaxation. The use of particular recovery experiences was generally associated with lower intentions to quit and positive indicators of psychological well-being. Research limitations/implications – There are several implications for research and practice. Scholars can use the results to extend the theories such as the job demands-resources model, including the role of work intensity as job demands. At the organizational level, managers and leaders should consider supporting strategies that help employees recover after work. Originality/value – This study extends the empirical research on recovery after work using some variables not previously used. The theory on recovery after work is also extended.