A Psychological Investigation on the Influences of Employment, Personal Life, and Policies on the Wellness of China's Domestic Workers

Abstract

Introduction: One of the most significant migrant staff categories worldwide comprises overseas Malaysian workers (OMWs). They are the majority of the immigrant household workers in China. Their circumstances at work and potential effects on the quality of their lives need to be better understood.

Objectives: The goal is to examine how the job, life at home, and policy affect household employee health in China. We'll look at things like pay, benefits, work-life balance, and social support, the availability of medical treatment, legal defences, and how policies are put into practice. The study aims to comprehend difficulties, spot potential for progress, and boost general well-being. The results will provide lawmakers, bosses, and other partners with information regarding possible measures to advance the well-being of household employees in China.

Methods: The working circumstances and health risks of a limited number of freelance Malaysian household workers who are women in Hong Kong, China, were investigated in this descriptive research. Deep conversations with 7 significant witnesses and focused group talks with 22 female household employees were undertaken.

Results: Housemaids reported vital structural, linguistic, financial, and cultural barriers to healthcare mobility, physical like high blood pressure, persistent discomfort, diabetes, poor falling asleep, psychological depression, stress, and addictions like gambling and alcoholic beverages misuse. Terrible workplace circumstances include mistreatment and abuse by employers, a lack of confidentiality and cramped accommodation at owners' homes or boarding facilities, language problems, insufficient labour safety precautions, and sexism.

Conclusions: The strain faced inside the host nation was frequently expressed in this sample of Malaysian migrant domestic carers. Low wages and debt restrict progress in society. Interventions at the psychosocial and policy levels are required to enhance the safety and wellness of this group of migrant women.