Psychological Correlates of Distress in Rescue 1122 Workers in Pakistan

The present research aimed to explore the psychological correlates of distress in Rescue 1122 workers. Relationship between emotional empathy, coping strategies, compassion fatigue and psychological distress was hypothesized. In addition, it was hypothesized that emotional empathy, coping strategies and compassion fatigue would predict psychological distress. By employing purposive sampling, 150 participants were selected from four Rescue 1122 stations in Lahore. Emotional Empathy Scale (Ashraf, 2004), Coping Strategies Questionnaire (Kausar & Munir, 2004), Compassion Fatigue Short Form (Adam, Figley & Boscarino, 2006) and Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scales (DASS: P. F. Lovibond & S. H. Lovibond, 1993) were used for assessment of the variables. Low tendency to be moved by other people emotional experiences and use of avoidance focused coping were found to predict depression, anxiety and stress. Less utilization of active focused coping was also found to be a predictor of anxiety while high level of burnout emerged as a predictor of stress. From demographics, exposure to traumatic events before joining service, high level of perceived support from workmates predicted depression, anxiety and stress. The research signified that Rescue 1122 administration needs to address these factors contributing towards psychological distress by enhancing training methods and providing psychological support to workers.