Exploring the Interplay between Occupational Stress, Social Support, and Work-Life Balance in CRPF Jawans

Abstract

Introduction: The occupation of defense personnel is highly demanding and strenuous, characterized by long working
hours, challenging working conditions, and hierarchical environments that may cause role conflict. Lack of social support
can further worsen their work-life balance. Objectives: This study aimed to examine the relationship between
occupational stress, social support, and work-life balance of Non-Gazetted Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) Jawans.
Significance/Relevance: Maintaining work-life balance is crucial for the well-being of defense personnel, where
occupational stress and lack of social support can impede this balance. However, there is a dearth of literature on the
relationship between these factors in defense forces. This study fills this gap in research. Methodology: This crosssectional

study involved 354 Non-Gazetted CRPF Jawans of the 148th battalion in Chandauli, Uttar Pradesh, India.
Stratified random sampling was used, with each company as an individual stratum. A pretested structured questionnaire
was used to collect data. Descriptive statistics, chi-square test, and logistic regression were used to analyze the data.
Major Findings: The study found that majority of CRPF Jawans had moderate occupational stress and nearly two-fifth of
them faced difficulty in balancing work and personal life. There was a significant association between occupational stress,
work-life balance, and social support in Non-Gazetted CRPF Jawans. Conclusions: The study highlights the need for the
government to provide better working conditions and social policies to support CRPF Jawans in managing the competing
demands of work and family life, and improve their overall well-being.