Psychosocial Risk Factors and Emotional Impact in University Workplaces: A Correlational Study Using ISTAS-21 and DASS-21

Abstract

Introduction: The university work environment represents a space where diverse organizational, academic, and personal demands converge, potentially affecting workers’ mental health. In this context, psychosocial risks become highly relevant, as they are closely linked to the emergence of emotional symptoms such as stress, anxiety, and depression. Objective: This study analyzes the relationship between occupational psychosocial risks and the emotional affectation of administrative personnel under the Labor Code regime at the State University of Milagro (UNEMI) during 2025. Materials and Methods: A quantitative, non-experimental, cross-sectional, and correlational design was employed, applying the Copenhagen Psychosocial Questionnaire (CoPsoQ-ISTAS21) and the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (DASS-21) to a sample of 97 workers. Results: The ISTAS-21 results showed high levels of demand in dimensions such as work pace, job insecurity, and emotional burden, accompanied by positive perceptions in recognition, meaning of work, and vertical trust. Conclusions: The DASS-21 indicated an overall stable emotional tendency, with anxiety within the normal range, mild depression, and moderate stress. Pearson’s correlation analysis revealed significant associations between psychosocial conditions and emotional indicators, highlighting a strong relationship between perceived insecurity and stress, as well as negative correlations in protective variables such as social support and leadership. These findings reflect an organization with high institutional commitment and organizational resilience, where well-being factors act as buffers against workplace demands. The study provides novel empirical evidence in the Ecuadorian university context, strengthening the scientific understanding of occupational mental health and its integration into industrial safety and occupational well-being policies.