A study of college counselors’ coping styles under occupational stress: mediating and moderating effects of occupational emotions

College counselors typically encounter substantial occupational stress in their work settings, exerting a direct influence on their coping styles. Previous research has delved into the connection between occupational stress and coping styles, while also elucidating some underlying operational mechanisms. However, the pivotal role of occupational emotions has often been overlooked. Occupational emotions encompass internal attitudes and experiences encountered during work, such as feelings of responsibility, honor, identity, and satisfaction. The objective of this investigation was to explore the interplay between occupational stress and the coping mechanisms employed by college counselors. Additionally, it aimed to assess the dual role of occupational emotions as both mediators and moderators within this intricate dynamic. To accomplish these objectives, the study employed the Occupational Stress Questionnaire, the Coping Styles Questionnaire, and the Occupational Emotion Questionnaire to survey 348 counselors from various undergraduate institutions. The results indicate that college counselors frequently confront high levels of occupational stress. Despite this, their coping methods tend to be quite positive. Elevated occupational stress serves as a strong predictor of negative coping and a weak indicator of positive coping. Occupational emotions partially mediate the relationship between occupational stress and coping styles among college counselors. Furthermore, occupational emotions significantly moderate the relationship between occupational stress and negative coping. We recommend implementing measures to alleviate occupational stress and enhance occupational emotions, as these steps can reinforce positive coping among college counselors, mitigate negative coping, and ultimately improve overall work efficiency.