The Role of Self-efficacy and Time Structure in the Development of Job Loss related Complicated Grief

Abstract

Job loss related complicated grief (JLCG) has gained increasing recognition in recent years. Yet, in clinical practice, symptoms of JLCG often go unnoticed. Deeper understanding of the factors involved in the development of JLCG is warranted. To this end, self-efficacy and time structure were assessed in their relative contribution to the development of JLCG. To limit sample bias and minimise the influence of governmental policies on JLCG symptoms, an international sample was recruited. A total of 94 participants (33 men, 50 women and 8 other), from 20 different countries participated in the present study. Linear regression analysis indicated a negative relationship between self-efficacy and JLCG and a negative relationship between time structure and JLCG. As self-efficacy and time structure increased, JLCG symptoms decreased. Furthermore, mediation analysis showcased an interaction effect between self-efficacy and time structure. While it is not clear to what extent, both self-efficacy and time structure appear to play a role in the development of JLCG. A more thorough understanding of the relationship between these two variables is warranted. The findings of this study, although preliminary, contribute to the growing knowledge of the mechanisms involved in the development of JLCG.