Does vocational passion matter? Minority case of Indonesian Christian educators

Abstract

This study investigated the role of vocational passion in the relationship between well-being, psychological distress, and job satisfaction among Indonesian Christian educators, who form part of a minority in a predominantly Muslim country. The research surveyed 2,421 active local Christian educators. We then conducted a confirmatory factor analysis and bootstrapping using SmartPLS. Indonesian Christian educators’ well-being and vocational passion have a direct positive effect on job satisfaction. Psychological distress has a direct negative effect on both job satisfaction and well-being. Notably, Indonesian Christian educators’ well-being partially mediates psychological distress and job satisfaction, indicating that educational institutions must address Indonesian Christian educators’ psychological distress rather than enhancing their well-being to improve their overall job satisfaction. Moreover, vocational passion negatively moderates the relationship between well-being and job satisfaction. This may be attributed to religious values and norms, and social expectations placed on Indonesian Christian educators. Last, vocational passion does not moderate the relationship between psychological distress and job satisfaction, indicating that, while vocational passion is essential, it may not serve as a buffer for the adverse effects of psychological distress on job satisfaction. Efforts should prioritize addressing well-being and psychological distress rather than relying solely on vocational passion to mitigate its impact.