Occupational psychosocial factors among speech-language pathologists working in mainstream and special education in Chile

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Published: Aug 31, 2026
Keywords:
occupational psychosocial factors speech-language pathology mainstream education special education occupational health

Main Article Content

Esteban Valenzuela Vásquez
Universidad Autónoma de Chile , Facultad Ciencias de la Salud, Carrera Fonoaudiología. Talca, Chile

Abstract

Introduction: psychosocial factors in the workplace constitute a relevant component of occupational health for professionals in the education field, particularly those who perform caregiving and support functions related to school inclusion. While international evidence has documented high levels of stress in speech-language pathologists working in educational settings, no studies in Chile have analyzed this issue or compared differences between mainstream and special education.
Objective: to determine and compare psychosocial factors in the workplace among speechlanguage pathologists working in mainstream vs special education in Chile.
Methodology: a quantitative, observational, cross-sectional, and analytical-comparative study was conducted. 158 speech-language pathologists from different regions of the country participated. Psychosocial factors in the workplace were assessed using the Job Content Questionnaire (JCQ) by Karasek, and comparisons between groups were performed using the Mann-Whitney U test.
Results: Greater psychological demands were observed in regular education professionals (p = 0.020; TE = -0.170), while speech-language pathologists in special education showed greater decision-making authority (p = 0.044; TE = 0.154). No statistically significant differences were observed in skills levels used, job control, supervisor support, peer support, social support, or job insecurity (p > 0.05).
Conclusion: the findings show specific, small differences in certain psychosocial dimensions of work, without allowing us to conclude that one group has higher overall levels of work-related stress.

Article Details

How to Cite
1.
Valenzuela Vásquez E. Occupational psychosocial factors among speech-language : pathologists working in mainstream and special education in Chile. Rev. Nac. (Itauguá) [Internet]. 2026 Aug. 31 [cited 2026 Sep. 1];18(PC):e1800113. Available from: https://www.revistadelnacional.com.py/index.php/inicio/article/view/442
Issue
Vol. 18 No. PC (2026): Revista del Nacional (Itauguá)
Section
Artículo Original
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