The Psychological Consequences of Unemployment: A Scoping Review

Background: The psychological consequences of unemployment are an important area of research, as joblessness has a significant impact on a person's psycho-emotional health. Understanding these consequences is crucial for developing strategies to mitigate the negative effects of unemployment on mental health. Despite the growing recognition of this issue, there is limited synthesis of existing research exploring the conceptualization, influencing factors, and theoretical approaches related to the psychological consequences of unemployment.

Purpose: To examine the psychological consequences of unemployment and their impact on mental health, with a focus on defining and conceptualizing these consequences. 

Method: The review was conducted according to best practices, and the extended PRISMA protocol for scoping reviews (PRISMA-ScR) was used for reporting. Data were collected through systematic searches in databases ScienceDirect and Google Scholar, focusing on research from the last decade. All relevant articles were assessed for compliance with pre-established criteria.

Results: The review identified significant psychological consequences of unemployment, including heightened levels of depression, anxiety, and social isolation, as well as reduced self-esteem and cognitive impairments. The analysis revealed that financial pressure and the loss of social identity exacerbate these effects, often leading to chronic stress and long-term mental health challenges. Cultural, gender, and socio-economic factors, along with regional differences, play a significant role in shaping individual experiences of unemployment. For instance, in regions with higher unemployment rates, there is a reduction in stigma, which mitigates some negative effects, whereas in areas with low unemployment, feelings of isolation are intensified. Additionally, gender differences indicate that men often struggle due to societal expectations to be breadwinners, while women face additional stress from balancing domestic responsibilities with job searching. These findings highlight the necessity for targeted interventions, such as social support programs tailored to demographic and regional characteristics, to alleviate the psycho-emotional impacts of unemployment.

Conclusion: The results of this review will help deepen the understanding of the psychological consequences of unemployment, offering insights into how these consequences can be mitigated through targeted interventions. The study will also influence the development of policies and practices aimed at supporting individuals facing unemployment and improving their psycho-emotional health and well-being.

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