Managers’ Influence on the Prevention of Common Mental Disorders in the Workplace

Abstract

Objective To investigate the association among managers’ attitudes toward subordinates with common mental disorders (CMDs), self-confidence in supporting these subordinates, and managerial preventive actions (MPAs). Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted among Swedish managers (n = 2988) and two types of MPAs: reviewing assignments and work situation (MPA-review), and talking about CMD at the workplace (MPA-talk). Binary logistic regression models were applied and adjusted for individual and organizational covariates. Results Managers with negative attitudes toward subordinates with CMD were less likely to have done both MPAs. Managers with higher self-confidence in supporting these subordinates were more likely to have done both MPAs compared with managers with lower self-confidence. Conclusions Managerial negative attitudes toward CMD and self-confidence in supporting subordinates with CMD have a role in MPAs and should be addressed in manager training programs to encourage preventive actions.