Abstract
The purpose of this study was to identify the basic elements and implications of interpersonal communications (positive communication : PCom) among co-workers to develop positive feelings toward occupational mental health promotion. Semi-structured interview survey was conducted, in which 35 workers were interviewed. A qualitative approach was employed in the content analysis of the collected data. Six elements were determined in the co-workers' behavior that induced positiveness : attitude of recognition as a member of the workplace, openness and fairness in the acceptance as a co-worker, cooperativeness in the work performance, considerations for hardship and emotional support, understanding of the situation and giving words of comfort, and frank responses to requests, suggestions or questionings. Subjects' cognitions resulted from PCom experiences involved four factors : feelings of being of a part of network, ability to perform appropriately in the current work environment, presence of mind as causes for anxiety were solved, and improved morale in work engagement. The relationship between co-workers' behavior of PCom and their cognition as a result of PCom experience was studied. It seems that PCom is a kind of social support actions and work experience to contribute to mental health promotion. To cultivate organizational climate that workers are able to experience PCom naturally is thought to be important for mental health promotion. Furthermore, PCom was found to contribute to productivity in both morale and work motivation. It is suggested that PCom could provide practical resource for healthy work organization.
