IMPACT OF OCCUPATIONAL STRESS ON JOB PERFORMANCE AMONG HEALTHCARE WORKERS IN INDIA: THE MEDIATING ROLE OF BURNOUT

Abstract

This study investigates the impact of occupational stress on job performance among nurses working in private hospitals in Tiruchirappalli, with burnout examined as a mediating variable. Drawing on data collected from 510 nursing professionals; the study employs Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) to analyze the relationships among the constructs. The results reveal that occupational stress has a significant negative effect on job performance, both directly and indirectly through burnout. Burnout emerges as a critical psychological mechanism that exacerbates the negative consequences of stress by reducing motivation, emotional energy, and professional efficacy. The findings underscore the importance of addressing workplace stressors and implementing supportive interventions aimed at reducing burnout to enhance job performance. This study contributes to the literature on healthcare workforce management by offering empirical evidence from the Indian private healthcare sector and highlights the urgent need for institutional strategies that prioritize mental health and well-being among nursing staff.