Personal Resources Moderate the Relationship Between Work Stress and Psychological Strain of Submariners

Work stress and personal resources that protect against personal strain and psychological distress were surveyed in 78 Royal Australian Navy submariners. We hypothesized that work stress and distress would be greater for senior than junior ranks, for married than single personnel, and for submariners with few personal resources. We also hypothesized that distress, and the moderating effects of personal resources, would be greater at sea than ashore. Work stress and psychological distress were greater for senior than junior ranks, both at sea and ashore. As well, psychological distress was greater at sea than ashore, particularly for senior ranks, but was moderated by personal resources. These findings have important implications for improving work conditions and individual well-being for submariners.