Linkage of job ranks and personality traits with augmented stress: a study on Indian marine engineers in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract

Background: Marine engineering is a profession that affects a high level of physical and psychological stress. Such a high level of stress was further aggravated during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. On the other hand, personality traits and perceived stress are linked with each other, while job ranks also influence stress levels among employees. However, very few clinical studies are available on this mechanism in seafarers. This study explores the hidden area through the collection of cross-sectional data. Materials and methods: Big Five personality traits instrument, along with a stress augmentation questionnaire, were administered among 280 Indian marine engineers across job ranks who have sailed prior to and during the COVID-19 pandemic. The collected data were analysed using Kruskal-Wallis test and structural equation modelling. Results and Conclusions: The analysis reveals significant differences among Indian marine engineers across their job ranks towards their perception of augmented stress levels. It also indicates that, except for extraversion, personality traits have linkages with levels of augmented stress among Indian marine engineers during the pandemic.