Design and Development of a Model for Individual Components of Mental Health Promotion: A Case Study of Faculty Members at Islamic Azad University, Tehran Province

Abstract

Purpose: The aim of this study was to design and develop a model for the individual components of mental health promotion among faculty members at Islamic Azad University, Tehran Province.Methodology: This research is applied in nature as its results can be used by stakeholders in decision-making. It was conducted using an exploratory approach, with data collection carried out through a mixed-methods design (qualitative and quantitative). Data were gathered through interviews with experts, which were transcribed and coded (open, axial, and selective) using grounded theory (theoretical framework) and the Delphi method, along with a researcher-developed questionnaire. The qualitative sample consisted of 10 experts and scholars in the fields of education, higher education management, and mental health. The quantitative sample included 334 faculty members of Islamic Azad University, Tehran Province, who were selected using simple random sampling during the academic year 2020-2021. Semi-structured interviews and the researcher-developed questionnaire were used for data collection, with the reliability of the questionnaire being reported as satisfactory (0.82). The data obtained from the semi-structured interviews were analyzed using coding techniques in the MaxQDA software, and the questionnaire data were analyzed to present the model using structural equation modeling with Smart PLS software.Findings: The coded findings revealed 7 main components (moral character, quality of life, independence, environmental mastery, positive feelings, perceived self-efficacy, and productivity), 3 mediating components (job satisfaction, self-acceptance, and interaction with the environment), and 2 moderating components (mental management and emotional health). Path analysis results showed that job satisfaction, with a coefficient of 0.567, is the most significant factor in promoting mental health.Conclusion: The results indicate that policies aimed at enhancing the mental health of faculty members include involvement in decision-making and providing opportunities to increase knowledge about mental and psychological well-being. To promote the mental health of faculty members, individual strategies that develop personal skills should be combined with environment-based approaches to influence and improve the overall university environment.