Beyond the workplace: An exploratory study of the impact of neurotoxic workplace exposure on marital relations

Background The impact on family life and social relations that may result f rom symptoms associated with exposure to neurotoxic substances has never be en addressed. This exploratory study assessed the associations between expo sure to neurotoxic agents in the workplace, mental health, and marital diff iculties. Methods Fifty-five (55) male workers and their spouses completed standardiz ed measures of mental health and marital difficulties. Workers' exposure to neurotoxic substances was evaluated by questionnaire avid interview using a semiquantitative classification system. Results A positive relation was observed between exposure level and measure s of workers' psychological symptoms and marital stress; no relation was ob served between workers' exposure level and wives' psychological symptoms. M ore severe exposure to neurotoxic substances was associated with wives' rep orts of more severe marital conflicts, and this association was mediated by husbands' psychological symptoms. As compared to low exposure husbands, hi gh exposure husbands reported higher degrees of stress surrounding marital discussions, move consistent incidence of minor physical assaults try wives , and stronger associations between their levels of stress, the verbal aggr essions of wives, and the number of marital conflicts. Conclusions The results of this study confirm that neurotoxic exposure is a risk factor for mental health and suggest how this may influence marital r elations. Because of the importance of these findings for the well-being of workers and their families, these associations should further studied (C) 2000 Wiley-Liss, Inc.