Spiritual care as a mediator in the relationship of the light and dark triad with life and work satisfaction among hospice workers.

Abstract

Background: Spiritual care refers to the provision of support that recognizes and responds to the spiritual needs of patients, particularly in times of illness, distress, or crisis. It encompasses addressing questions of meaning, purpose, connection, and transcendence, as well as supporting religious and existential concerns. Working in palliative care requires exceptional interpersonal skills, as hospice workers often develop close relationships with patients and their families during critical moments in their lives. While much research highlights the significance of spiritual care for the well-being of patients and their loved ones, growing attention is being given to its role in the functioning of palliative care workers.

Material and methods: This study examined a mediation model in which spiritual care mediated the relationship between the light and dark triads and life and work satisfaction among hospice workers. A cross-sectional study was conducted with 261 hospice workers in Poland.

Results: Results indicated that, among palliative care workers, the light triad was positively associated with spiritual care, life satisfaction, and work satisfaction, while the dark triad was negatively associated only with spiritual care. Additionally, spiritual care was positively linked to both life and work satisfaction. Mediation analysis revealed that spiritual care mediated the relationship between the light triad and life satisfaction, as well as the relationship between the dark triad and both life and work satisfaction among palliative care workers.

Conclusions: These findings from a cross-sectional study highlight the crucial role of spiritual care in enhancing the life and work satisfaction of hospice workers. Given its significance, integrating spiritual care training and support systems into palliative care settings could foster both personal well-being and professional fulfilment among hospice workers. Future research should explore interventions aimed at strengthening spiritual care competencies and examine their long-term effects on healthcare professionals' resilience and job satisfaction. Med Pr Work Health Saf. 2025;76(2).