Stress and Work Performance among Scientists and Technologists after Wenchuan Earthquake: the Moderating Role of Self-efficacy

Abstract

: The present article examined the extent of self-efficacy moderate stress and work performance among scientists and technologists after the 2008 Wenchuan Earthquake in China. Self-report psychological questionnaires, the Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI) and the General Self-Efficacy Scale (GSES) were used to interview a total of 704 survivors from the very hardest hit zone and the hardest hit zone. Results, based on a regression analysis, revealed that males and minorities were found to have a higher level of self-efficacy; Youngers have a better work performance; self-efficacy plays a partial moderation between stress and work performance. Overall, this analysis highlighted the significance of enhancing appropriate and effective self-efficacy strategies to increase work performance of scientific and technological workers after the earthquake. It also indicates that more energy needs to be devoted to stress-reducing and positive-incentive countermeasures, as well as active coping mechanisms and support from family and society, are protective factors for scientists and technologist survivors to increase self-efficacy and in turns to improve work performance.