The Mediating Role of Fear of COVID-19 in the Association between COVID-19–Related Work Stressors and Subjective Well-being

Abstract

Objective COVID-19 has changed work conditions and instilled fear. However, research overlooked the contributing factors to fear of COVID-19 and its impact on well-being. We addressed this research gap and focused on the essential workforce of child care. Methods Three samples of early childhood professionals (ECPs) (N T1 = 423, N T2 = 142, N T3 = 584) were gathered in Germany between June 2020 and May 2021. We tested via path analysis whether (1) fear of COVID-19 relates to well-being, (2) COVID-19–related work stressors relate to fear of COVID-19, and (3) fear of COVID-19 mediates the relationship of work stressors and well-being. Results Findings of NT1 and NT3 lent support, while results of NT2 differed. Conclusions This study underlines the importance of adapting the work conditions during pandemics to reduce the fear of infection and thus preserve ECPs’ well-being.