Job strain and evolution of mental health among nurses.

The objective of this 2nd phase of a 2-year study among female nurses was to provide further empirical validation of the demands-control and social support model. The association of job strain with psychological problems and the potential modifying role of social support at work were examined. A questionnaire was sent at the workplace to 1,741 nurses. The same associations were found between psychological demands, decision latitude, and a combination of the 2 with psychological distress and emotional exhaustion for current exposure and for cumulative exposure. Social support had a direct effect on these psychological symptoms but did not modify their association with job strain. Longitudinal and prospective data are needed to study the occurrence and persistence of health problems when exposure is maintained or retrieved.