Assessing the Impact of Job Demand, Surface Acting, and Workplace Social Support on Social workers' Job Satisfaction

Abstract

The demand for high-quality social welfare services, driven by an aging population and declining birth rates, highlights the need for effective practices. However, professionals often face challenging work environments, leading to stress and low job satisfaction. Factors like high job demands, emotional labor, and limited workplace support contribute significantly to these issues. A study of 392 social workers in South Korea found that job demands negatively impact satisfaction, especially when combined with surface acting, which exacerbates stress. However, workplace social support can buffer these adverse effects, enhancing job satisfaction. Addressing these dynamics through targeted interventions is essential for improving work satisfaction and the overall quality of social welfare services.