Extending and Intensifying Work as Mediators in the Relationship Between Weekly Time Pressure and Fatigue: The Moderating Role of Perfectionism

Extending and intensifying work are two self-endangering work strategies that have been shown to impair employee health and well-being. In this study, we investigate with a weekly design the mediating effect of extending and intensifying work in the interplay of time pressure and fatigue. In addition, we explore the role of dispositional perfectionism (perfectionistic strivings and concerns) in this relationship. A sample of 175 teachers responded to weekly surveys over 6 weeks. Multilevel moderated mediation models revealed that time pressure evokes fatigue on a weekly basis. This effect is mediated by weekly extending work, but not by weekly intensifying work. Teachers who rate high on dispositional perfectionistic concerns and strivings are more likely to engage in intensifying work on a weekly basis. In addition, those rating high on dispositional perfectionistic strivings are also more likely to extend their weekly working time. Interestingly, dispositional perfectionism does not affect teachers' responses to time pressure. Theoretical and practical implications are discussed.