The impact of work stress and job satisfaction on turnover intentions: A study of Australian specialist alcohol and other drug workers

Abstract

Aims: A national study was conducted to investigate the extent and nature of job attitudes and well-being of specialist alcohol and other drug (AOD) workers in Australia. As part of that larger study, work stress and job satisfaction and their relationship with turnover intentions were examined.

Method: A postal survey measuring working conditions, work stress, job satisfaction, turnover intention and key demographics among specialist frontline workers from AOD treatment services across Australia was undertaken. A total of 1345 responses from workers in 369 participating AOD treatment services were obtained.

Findings: Although the majority of workers were satisfied with their jobs, one in five workers reported above average levels of stress. One in five workers also expressed intentions to leave the AOD field. Significant predictors of higher turnover intention were low job satisfaction, high work stress, low workplace social support and negative attitudes towards remuneration.

Conclusion: This study was the first attempt to collect empirical data on levels of stress and job satisfaction among the Australian specialist AOD workforce. The findings presented here focus on work stress and job satisfaction and their association with turnover intention. The results indicate cause for concern and have important implications for the development of strategies to minimize turnover and improve the well-being of specialist AOD workers in Australia.