Person-Environment Fit, Emotional Exhaustion, and Depression: The Mediating Role of Workplace Belonging

This study explored the relationship between person-environment fit (PE-fit), workplace belonging, emotional exhaustion, and depression, with a specific focus on the mediating role of workplace belonging. A sample of 202 French professionals completed validated French-language online-questionnaires assessing these variables. Results supported the hypothesized model. Negative associations were found between PE-fit, workplace belonging, emotional exhaustion, and depression. Mediation analysis confirmed workplace belonging’s mediating role between PE-fit and employee depression, as well as emotional exhaustion. This research underscores the significance of workplace belonging in understanding links between person–environment fit, emotional exhaustion, and depression. These findings offer practical insights for organizations aiming to prevent psychological distress by enhancing employees’ sense of belonging.