Well–being as a Predictor of Turnover Intention: A Quantitative Study of Occupational Safety and Health Professionals in the U.S.

Abstract

This quantitative correlational regression study examines the relationship between employee well–being and turnover intention among occupational safety and health (OSH) professionals in the United States. Previous research highlights a decline in well–being and an increase in turnover intention among OSH professionals. This study focuses on how well–being predicts turnover intention, utilizing simple linear regression analysis on data from two surveys. Results show a weak to moderate predictive relationship between affective well–being and turnover intention. The sample consists of U.S. OSH professionals, predominantly from the Western region. The findings align with self–determination theory (SDT), suggesting that satisfying basic psychological needs—autonomy, competence, and relatedness—enhances well–being, influencing turnover intention. When individuals experience positive emotional states and their emotional needs are met, they exhibit higher well–being and job satisfaction. This study contributes to understanding the well–being–turnover intention dynamic in the OSH field, offering insights into organizational retention strategies and employee support programs.

Keywords: Affective well–being, autonomy, burnout, competency, job satisfaction, motivation, self–determination theory, relatedness, turnover intention, well–being