Psychological well-being at work among moroccan fitness coaches: a psychometric and sociodemographic analysis

Abstract

Introduction: Psychological well-being at work is a key construct in sport psychology and occupational health, especially in high-demand professions such as fitness coaching. Objective: This study aimed to validate a psychological well-being at work model among Moroccan fitness coaches and examine sociodemographic differences. Methodology: A two-stage design was used. An exploratory factor analysis was conducted with 110 coaches to assess the structure of the psychological well-being at work scale. A confirmatory factor analysis using SPSS-AMOS was then performed with 355. Model fit, validity, and reliability were tested, and non-parametric tests examined group differences. Results: The scale showed a stable factorial structure with good psychometric properties. Significant differences emerged only for the feeling of competence, with males scoring higher than females. Divorced coaches reported higher psychological well-being at work than married and single coaches. No significant differences were found for age, education, experience, or work arrangement. Discussion: Sociodemographic factors show only limited and specific effects on psychological well-being at work. Gender differences may reflect structural inequalities in coaching contexts, while higher well-being among divorced coaches may be linked to adaptation and personal growth. Overall, psychological well-being at work is more influenced by psychosocial and contextual factors than by demographic characteristics. Conclusion: The study confirms the validity of the psychological well-being at work model in Moroccan fitness coaches and highlights the need to further explore contextual determinants such as technostress and social media effects in coaching environments.