McShane, C., Quirk, F., and Swinbourne, A. (2012) Building resilience in Australian farming communities: the relationship of farm and family to well-being. Psychology & Health, 27 (Supp 1). p. 276.

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Abstract

[Extract] Background: Qualities of resilience have been strongly identified within farming populations. This resilience is being challenged, with high suicide rates raising concerns about the mental health of the farming population. This research explored those factors which impacted the resilience of farming families of Australia. Methods: Interviews were conducted (N=53 participants) and analysed using Grounded Theory and Content Analysis. Based on qualitative findings, a subsequent sample (N=278) of farming families from across Australia completed the survey. Measures of stressors, work-life balance, coping, buffering characteristics and well-being were distributed. Findings: Outcomes suggested themes of commitment and identification with farming helped build resilience. Path analysis indicated that buffering characteristics mediated and moderated the impact of stressors and role interference on indicators of well-being, χ² (18)=23.98, p=0.156. Discussion: Recommendations were made for raising awareness to the farming community of the risk factors for poor health and suggestions for increasing the resilience of groups at-risk of poor well-being.

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