How social connectedness contributes to life satisfaction among Chinese nurses: Testing potential moderated mediation pathways

Abstract

AbstractAimsThe purpose of this study was to identify the mediating and moderating mechanisms by which social connectedness predicts life satisfaction among Chinese nurses.BackgroundPrevious researchers have primarily focused on sociodemographic and occupational domain risk factors for nurses’ life satisfaction with relatively little insight into facilitative and protective factors and underlying psychological mechanisms.MethodsWe investigated 459 Chinese nurses’ social connectedness, work–family enrichment, self‐concept clarity, and life satisfaction via a cross‐sectional design. We explored the underlying predictive mechanisms among these variables by creating a moderated mediation model. We followed STROBE checklist.ResultsWork–family enrichment played a mediating role in understanding the positive effects of social connectedness on nurses’ life satisfaction. In addition, the moderating effect of self‐concept clarity was manifested itself in the association between work–family enrichment and life satisfaction.Discussion and conclusionInterpersonal asset (social connectedness) and the positive aspect of the work–family interface (work–family enrichment) were significant contributors to nurses’ life satisfaction. In particular, high self‐concept clarity can enhance the beneficial effect of work‒family enrichment on life satisfaction.Implications for nursing policy and practiceStrengthening social connectedness, promoting synergy in work‒family roles, and maintaining a clarity of self‐concept are important intervention pathways to enhance the health and well‐being of nurses.