Occupational stress is a prevalent concern in healthcare settings, arising from high job demands, emotional labour, and limited control over work conditions. While existing research has primarily focused on external stressors, less attention has been given to internal cognitive processes such as learned helplessness. The present study investigates the relationship between learned helplessness and occupational stress among healthcare professionals and examines whether stress levels differ across professional roles. The study utilised a quantitative, cross-sectional correlational design with a sample of 232 healthcare professionals, including clinical, technical, and supportive staff. Standardised instruments, the Learned Helplessness Scale (LHS) and the Occupational Stress Index (OSI), were administered to assess the variables. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, Pearson’s correlation, and one-way ANOVA. Findings revealed moderate levels of learned helplessness and occupational stress. A significant positive correlation (r = 0.385, p < .001) was observed, indicating that higher levels of learned helplessness are associated with increased occupational stress. No significant differences were found in stress levels across job roles, suggesting the influence of shared organisational stressors. The study underscores the importance of integrating cognitive and organisational perspectives in understanding occupational stress. It highlights the need for interventions that enhance perceived control, strengthen psychological resources, and improve workplace environments to support healthcare professionals’ well-being and performance.
N et al. (Thu,) studied this question.