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Publication date: 17 March 2022

Jenny Meggs and Peter Sewell

There is an increasing awareness that higher education (HE) institutions face significant challenges in managing and supporting students as they transition into university life

Abstract

There is an increasing awareness that higher education (HE) institutions face significant challenges in managing and supporting students as they transition into university life. If HE institutions struggle to achieve this important aim, this can lead to an increase in student drop-out. This can of course present significant financial implications and challenges and worse still, result in mental health challenges in students. The concept of Mental Toughness (MT) has been shown in a substantial number of investigations, to develop our understanding of why some people might be more vulnerable to these pressures than others. Importantly, it provides both a means of identifying those people and insights about ways they can be best supported. This chapter proposes a well-researched MT framework to facilitate and support universities with these challenges and highlights three key strategies for managing this successfully.

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Article
Publication date: 27 April 2018

Fiona Ward, Helen St Clair-Thompson and Alex Postlethwaite

Mental toughness describes a set of attributes relating to how individuals deal with challenges, stressors, and pressure. The purpose of this paper is to examine the relationships…

1287

Abstract

Purpose

Mental toughness describes a set of attributes relating to how individuals deal with challenges, stressors, and pressure. The purpose of this paper is to examine the relationships between mental toughness and perceived stress in police and fire officers.

Design/methodology/approach

The participants were 247 police officers and 130 fire fighters. Participants completed questionnaire measures of mental toughness and perceived stress, and provided information about their age, rank, and length of service within the force.

Findings

Mental toughness was found to be significantly related to perceived stress, with control of emotion, control of life, and confidence in abilities being particularly important. There was no consistent relationship of age, rank, or length of service with mental toughness and perceived stress. However, police officers reported lower levels of mental toughness and higher levels of perceived stress than fire officers.

Practical implications

The results suggest that assessing police and fire officers on a measure of mental toughness could provide a means of identifying individuals more likely to suffer from stress and stress-related physical and psychological illness. In addition, interventions that may enhance mental toughness could have beneficial effects within this population.

Originality/value

This is the first study to examine mental toughness and perceived stress within this population, and the findings have important implications for the management of stress.

Details

Policing: An International Journal, vol. 41 no. 6
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1363-951X

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Article
Publication date: 24 July 2024

Prabha Subramanian, Monica Gallant and Pranab K. Pani

This literature review examines women’s significant workplace challenges and explores mental toughness, a distinct non-cognitive ability associated with peak athletic performance…

145

Abstract

Purpose

This literature review examines women’s significant workplace challenges and explores mental toughness, a distinct non-cognitive ability associated with peak athletic performance. This study aims to understand this concept and its potential for women professionals facing similar challenges in an organisational context.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on a systematic literature review, this exploratory paper is an integrative literature review synthesising pre-existing knowledge using secondary scientific databases. This literature analysis will pave the way for comprehension of the existing body of research, identification of research gaps, and opportunities for further studies. Different typologies of mental toughness (MT) have been identified, and a new typology will emerge from this research study.

Findings

The study analyses over 100 articles based on MT typology and complex gender dynamics at work, especially the “broken rung” concept of trapping women in lower or mid-level roles in an organisation. This content analyses the recent emergence of the MT typology in academic research, with articles published after 2019 and a few earlier key works that shaped the concept of MT. In addition to contributing a comprehensive typology of MT and its impact on women professionals, this paper also provides recommendations for future research and individual-level development of MT to help women overcome workplace barriers globally.

Research limitations/implications

Understanding MT’s impact on women’s ability to overcome workplace barriers has HR implications, including hiring, retention, career advancement, training and closing gender gaps. This research may help individual women professionals adopt MT as a psychological resource to navigate work environment challenges. Further research is needed for practical insights, given this discussion is based on a literature review.

Practical implications

The practical implications of this study have a profound impact on human resource management practices within organisations, highlighting the multifaceted approach required to tackle gender disparity. A more inclusive and supportive work environment can be created by ensuring MT training is accessible to all employees. A comprehensive career development plan for women professionals, including but not limited to mentoring, executive sponsorship, skill-building training or stretched assignments, leadership coaching, networking opportunities, and increased visibility in the organisation are critical for career advancement and retention.

Originality/value

This study is a novel attempt to examine whether MT, which has proven effective in helping athletes achieve their goals, can be applied in a workplace environment. It is also a new endeavour to investigate whether women could use MT as a psychological tool to help them overcome obstacles in a diverse professional setting.

Details

Gender in Management: An International Journal , vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1754-2413

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Article
Publication date: 22 March 2024

Evans Kwesi Mireku, Ernest Kissi, Edward Badu, Clinton Ohis Aigbavboa, Titus Kwofie and Kenneth Eluerkeh

The construction industry is an industry which has gained notoriety when it comes to both physical and mental health problems. Compared to other industries, the construction…

359

Abstract

Purpose

The construction industry is an industry which has gained notoriety when it comes to both physical and mental health problems. Compared to other industries, the construction sector has a higher prevalence of many stressors and mental health concerns. This calls for mechanisms to cope with these concerns. One coping mechanism propounded to help cope and adapt in the face of pressures and challenges is “Mental Toughness (MT)”. While mental toughness has been widely studied in various fields, there is a paucity of comprehensive research examining its significance among construction professionals. Thus, the motivation of this study is to establish the mental toughness characteristics among construction professionals in Ghana.

Design/methodology/approach

The construction industry is an industry which has gained notoriety when it comes to both physical and mental health problems. Compared to other industries, the construction sector has a higher prevalence of mental health concerns. One coping mechanism propounded to help cope and adapt in the face of pressures and challenges is “Mental Toughness (MT)”. While mental toughness has been widely studied in various fields, there is a paucity of comprehensive research examining its significance among construction professionals. Thus, the motivation of this study is to establish the mental toughness characteristics among construction professionals.

Findings

the study's findings revealed 13-factor model characteristics of mental toughness with 43 variables for mentally tough performers in the construction environment. These 13-factor models include Pressure Management (PM), Motivation (M), Emotional Intelligence (EI), Interpersonal self-belief (SB), Tough Attitude (TA), Job-related self-belief (SBB), Ethical Values (EV), Commitment (C), Focus (F), Optimism (OP), Expertise and Competence (EC), Imagery Control (IC) and Resilient (R).

Practical implications

The outcome of this study has significant practical implications for various stakeholders. For construction professionals the identified factors provide valuable insights into the psychological attributes and behaviours that contribute to mental toughness among construction professionals. Understanding these characteristics can empower professionals to develop strategies for coping with stress, maintaining focus, and fostering resilience in challenging construction environments to achieve optimum performance levels consistently.

Originality/value

The originality of this study's findings stems from the fact that it is among the first to provide greater insight into mental toughness characteristics considered by professionals (quantity surveyors, construction managers, engineers, project managers, architects, estate managers) in the construction industry.

Details

Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0969-9988

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Article
Publication date: 14 February 2022

Namita Ruparel, Rajneesh Choubisa, Himanshu Seth and Shubha Dubey

Time and again, scholars have emphasized the vitality of mental toughness for success in performance-oriented contexts. Despite the awareness about the significance of mental…

568

Abstract

Purpose

Time and again, scholars have emphasized the vitality of mental toughness for success in performance-oriented contexts. Despite the awareness about the significance of mental toughness, there is ambiguity in the conceptual consensus of the factors that comprise of the construct in an organizational setup. Second, there is a dearth of a psychometrically sound measure that assesses mental toughness among employees.

Design/methodology/approach

The study follows a multi-method approach to develop a mental toughness questionnaire. First, to arrive at a consensus of the factors that construe mental toughness, a meta-ethnography was done. Subsequently, a measure of mental toughness was developed and tested following scale development norms.

Findings

Drawing from the results of qualitative inquiry, four factors of mental toughness were derived, namely, perseverance, control, challenge and commitment. Then, the scale development process was followed. Results of psychometric testing using three samples were above the acceptable range, justifying the use of developed scale for academic and professional purposes.

Originality/value

This study is a novel attempt in the literature to extract factors of mental toughness through meta-ethnography and consequently develop a scale.

Details

International Journal of Productivity and Performance Management, vol. 72 no. 6
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1741-0401

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Article
Publication date: 9 April 2024

Evans Kwesi Mireku, Ernest Kissi, Ivy Maame Adwoa Abu, Alex Acheampong and Nana Kwame Peprah Armah

The construction sector is recognized for subjecting its workers to various psychological pressures and mental stressors. As a result, it is crucial to explore and discover…

172

Abstract

Purpose

The construction sector is recognized for subjecting its workers to various psychological pressures and mental stressors. As a result, it is crucial to explore and discover effective strategies to support these workers in managing and enduring these demanding circumstances. Mental toughness is a concept that has been advocated to aid individuals in coping and adapting to pressures and challenges. Therefore, it is imperative to explore strategies critical to developing mental toughness among construction professionals. Thus, the purpose of this study is to identify critical strategies for the development of mental toughness among construction professionals.

Design/methodology/approach

A comprehensive literature review was conducted using Google Scholar, Scopus, ScienceDirect and PubMed databases to identify the strategies for the development of mental toughness. These identified strategies were used to develop a structured closed-ended questionnaire to aid in data collection. Of the 317 questionnaires distributed, 207 were collected and used for data analysis. The data were analysed using mean score ranking and one sample t-test.

Findings

The study highlighted 12 critical strategies for the development of mental toughness among construction professionals. These include recognizing and rewarding achievements, taking time for self-care, organizing mental training programs, using positive self-talk, embracing a growth mindset, providing social support/developing a strong support network, creating a challenging training environment, engaging in regular physical exercise, fostering a mastery motivational climate, setting clear but challenging goals, practicing mental imagery and practicing reflection on setbacks and failures. The analysis results indicated that all of the strategies, except one (which involves practicing reflection on setbacks and failures), displayed significance. By incorporating these strategies, construction firms and the industry as a whole can empower their workforce to cope and/or overcome the various demands and stressors that work and life places on them.

Research limitations/implications

The study highlights the significance of recognizing and rewarding achievements, fostering a growth mindset and implementing mental training programs to cultivate mental toughness among construction professionals. Moreover, promoting self-care practices and offering social support are essential strategies for enhancing mental resilience in the construction industry. By adopting these evidence-based approaches, construction organizations can create a mentally tough workforce capable of handling the challenges and demands of the industry effectively.

Originality/value

This study contributes significantly to the general body of knowledge in mental health management among employees in the construction industry. It does set the pace for the development of the general well-being of construction professionals in the achievement of mental toughness goals.

Details

Journal of Engineering, Design and Technology , vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1726-0531

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Article
Publication date: 1 March 1985

F.G. Rammerstorfer, W. Auli and F.D. Fischer

The present paper deals with the numerical calculation of the behaviour of vertical wind‐loaded cylindrical shells (large liquid storage tanks) with a very flexible bottom plate…

58

Abstract

The present paper deals with the numerical calculation of the behaviour of vertical wind‐loaded cylindrical shells (large liquid storage tanks) with a very flexible bottom plate resting on an elastic foundation. The base of the tank, i.e. the lower boundary of the shell and the bottom plate, may partially uplift due to the shell deformations under the dead load, a hydrostatic pressure and due to wind forces. This behaviour represents non‐linear boundary conditions of the tank wall. Hence, the stability of the wind‐loaded tank is extremely influenced by the uplift conditions. This non‐linear problem (large deformations and variable contact) is solved by the FE method.

Details

Engineering Computations, vol. 2 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0264-4401

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Article
Publication date: 1 January 1978

C.R. Clough and L.C. Kilvington

From a package developed for internal use, ASSASSIN has become widely recognised as a major tool in computerised information handling. The history of its development is traced and…

16

Abstract

From a package developed for internal use, ASSASSIN has become widely recognised as a major tool in computerised information handling. The history of its development is traced and some of the many facilities available are listed. Operational experience has shown ASSASSIN to be reliable and versatile, both in terms of the programs available and the related services that surround them. Much of the continuing success of the package is due to the constant dialogue between its users and the ASSASSIN team, ensuring an active development schedule. The paper looks at some of the current development work including an on‐line search package.

Details

Program, vol. 12 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0033-0337

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Book part
Publication date: 18 October 2017

Mélia Djabi and Sakura Shimada

The purpose of this article is to understand how academics in management deal with the concept of generation in the workplace. We begin by conducting an interdisciplinary…

Abstract

The purpose of this article is to understand how academics in management deal with the concept of generation in the workplace. We begin by conducting an interdisciplinary literature analysis, thereby elaborating a conceptual framework concerning generational diversity. This framework consists of four levels of analysis (society, career, organisation and occupation) and three dimensions (age, cohort and event/period). We then conduct a meta-analysis using this conceptual framework to analyse papers from the management field. The results from this analysis reveal the existence of a diversity of generational approaches, which focus on the dimensions of age and cohort on a societal level. Four factors seem to explain these results: the recent de-synchronisation of generational dimensions and levels, the novelty of theoretical models, the amplification of stereotypes by mass media and the methodologies employed by researchers. In sum, this article contributes to a more realistic view of generational diversity in the workplace for both academics and practitioners.

Details

Management and Diversity
Type: Book
ISBN: 978-1-78635-489-1

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Article
Publication date: 1 April 1977

THE Reference Department of Paisley Central Library today occupies the room which was the original Public Library built in 1870 and opened to the public in April 1871. Since that…

432

Abstract

THE Reference Department of Paisley Central Library today occupies the room which was the original Public Library built in 1870 and opened to the public in April 1871. Since that date two extensions to the building have taken place. The first, in 1882, provided a separate room for both Reference and Lending libraries; the second, opened in 1938, provided a new Children's Department. Together with the original cost of the building, these extensions were entirely financed by Sir Peter Coats, James Coats of Auchendrane and Daniel Coats respectively. The people of Paisley indeed owe much to this one family, whose generosity was great. They not only provided the capital required but continued to donate many useful and often extremely valuable works of reference over the many years that followed. In 1975 Paisley Library was incorporated in the new Renfrew District library service.

Details

Library Review, vol. 26 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0024-2535

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