Introduction to a study of employees living and working in the UK

You are invited to participate in a research study conducted by Ms. Sandy ElChaar from the University of Bolton under the supervision of Prof. Alfried Laengle. Your decision to join is voluntary. Prior to making a choice, it is important to comprehend the purpose of the research and its requirements. This study targets people who are living and working in the UK and who are employees. After reviewing this information, the researcher is available to address any queries you might have. Feel free to seek clarification or additional information. Discuss the study with others if desired. Take your time to determine your participation.

What is the purpose of the study? 

This study is aiming to investigate existential concerns in the workplace and their impact on employee well-being. We aim to explore your experiences with existential concerns in the workplace, including your reflections on the meaning and purpose of your work, your sense of freedom and authenticity in decision-making, and your feelings of responsibility towards fulfilling work duties. Additionally, we seek to understand how these concerns impact your motivation, job satisfaction, engagement, and overall well-being. By delving into these aspects, we hope to gain insights into the challenges and successes you encounter, as well as identify barriers and facilitators to experiencing meaningful engagement with your work.

Why have I been asked to take part?

You have been asked to take part in this survey because your perspective and experiences as a UK employee regarding your concerns and challenges in the workplace are valuable. Your insights can contribute to a deeper understanding of how individuals perceive and navigate these issues within their professional environments. By participating, you have the opportunity to provide feedback that may help inform strategies for enhancing employee well-being and satisfaction in the workplace. Your input is essential in shaping the direction of this research and potentially influencing practices aimed at supporting individuals in addressing these challenges within their work settings.

Do I have to take part?

No. It is up to you to decide to take part or not.  If you don’t want to take part, that’s ok.  Your decision will not affect your relationship with either  the researcher nor the institutions involved, regardless of whether they are informed about your participation or not. Your participation in this study is entirely voluntary, and you may withdraw at any time without penalty.

What will I have to do?

You will be asked to complete a survey consisting of questions about demographic information, concerns and challenges in the workplace, their effects on well-being, job satisfaction, and engagement. The survey has 91 questions arranged over 4 parts and will take approximately 20 minutes to complete.

Confidentiality

Your responses will be kept strictly confidential and anonymous throughout the duration of this study and beyond. No personally identifiable information will be collected alongside your survey responses, ensuring that your privacy is fully protected. Any data collected will be stored securely on password-protected servers, accessible only to the researcher. Additionally, any reports or publications resulting from this study will present aggregate findings, ensuring that individual responses cannot be traced back to specific participants. Rest assured that every measure will be taken to maintain the confidentiality and security of your data.

What are the possible risks and disadvantages? 

There are minimal risks associated with participating in this study. However, reflecting on work related concerns and challenges may evoke personal thoughts or emotions.

What are the possible benefits? 

While we cannot promise the study will help you, your involvement will contribute valuable insights that may help improve workplace motivation. Additionally, your participation may lead to increased clarity and deeper insights regarding the questions at hand.

Who has checked this study? 

All research involving human participants is looked at by an independent group of people, called a Research Ethics Committee, to protect your interests. This study has been reviewed and given favourable opinion by The University of Bolton.

Further information and contact details 

Thank you for taking time to read this information leaflet. If you think you will take part in the study please read and sign the consent form.

If you would like any further information, please contact Ms. Sandy ElChaar who can answer any questions you may have about the study.

If you have a concern about any aspect of this study, you should ask to speak to the supervisor of the study who will do their best to answer your questions.

Contact details:

Sandy ElChaar

Researcher - PhD Candidate

se1res@bolton.ac.uk

+96171145420

Alfried Laengle

Direct Supervisor

M.D., Ph.D., Dr. h.c.mult., Honorary Professor

Clinical Psychologist & Psychotherapist

Founder and president of the Viennese School of Existential Analysis and Logotherapy

alfried@laengle.info

Anna Bougia

Head of Doctorate Programmes, Research & Language Studies - New York College, Greece

abougia@nyc.gr