Mental Demands at the Workplace-Are Information Load, Time Control, and Exploration Associated With Depressiveness?

Objective: According to self-determination theory, autonomy and competence are two essential basic human needs. It is the aim of this study to show that mental demands at the workplace (WPMDs) that address those basic needs can protect employees against depressiveness. Methods: Using a sample of 346 working participants (average age 56.2), we derived three WPMDs (Information Load, Time Control, and Exploration) via principal component analysis. We then analyzed how far they predict depressiveness, and how far this mechanism is mediated by perceived fit between job and person (PJF). Results: Time Control and Exploration significantly reduced depressiveness, and the relationship between exploration and depressiveness was mediated by PJF. Conclusions: Our results emphasize the importance of addressing basic human needs at the workplace, and the relevance of PJF for employee mental health.