Job satisfaction refers to a positive emotional response by employees toward their work, reflecting not only contentment but also a long-term commitment to the organization and a tendency to enhance productivity. This study aims to examine the role of work motivation as a mediating variable in the relationship between work stress and job satisfaction. The research was conducted at Bali Provincial Mental Hospital with a total sample of 76 contract nurses, determined using a saturated sampling method. The study is based on Frederick Herzberg’s Two-Factor Theory as its theoretical framework. Data were collected through interviews and surveys using structured questionnaires as research instruments, and analyzed using path analysis techniques. The findings reveal that: (1) work stress has a negative and significant effect on job satisfaction, indicating that higher levels of stress reduce employees’ satisfaction with their work; (2) work stress has a negative and significant effect on work motivation, showing that increased stress lowers employees’ drive to perform; (3) work motivation has a positive and significant effect on job satisfaction, suggesting that motivated employees tend to have higher satisfaction levels; and (4) work motivation partially mediates the relationship between work stress and job satisfaction, meaning that stress impacts satisfaction both directly and indirectly through its influence on motivation. The study’s implications highlight the need for management to monitor and address work stress levels among contract nurses. Effective stress management strategies can reduce its negative impact, foster motivation, and ultimately improve job satisfaction. The results are expected to serve as a reference for developing policies and interventions aimed at enhancing nurse well-being and performance. Future research is encouraged to explore additional factors that may contribute to improving job satisfaction in healthcare settings.
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