*1.3. The Present Study*

The present study aims to elucidate the mediating contribution of coping strategies in the association between risk perception of COVID-19 and psychological well-being as well as the association between meaning-based resources and psychological well-being amongst healthcare personnel. Based on the research presented above, three hypotheses were formulated. First, we hypothesized that risk perception of COVID-19 will be negatively and directly associated with psychological well-being, while meaning-based resources will be positively and directly associated with the psychological well-being of healthcare personnel on the frontline in combating COVID-19 (Hypothesis 1). Second, given that the relationship between the individual's appraisal of stressful events and psychological outcomes depends on the way they cope with challenging situations [20,40], we hypothesized that coping strategies will mediate relationships between risk perception of COVID-19 and psychological well-being (Hypothesis 2). Third, given that personal resources play an important role in shaping coping behavior, which consequently determines psychological adjustment [37,38], we hypothesized that coping strategies would mediate the meaning-based resources and psychological well-being link (Hypothesis 3). Table 1 shows the summary of key constructs included in the study.


**Table 1.** Summary and definitions of the key constructs included in the study.
