Occupational Stress
R.GNANESHWARI
IntroductionDefinition Occupational stress “is the response people may have
when presented with work demands and pressures that are not matched to their knowledge and abilities and which challenge their ability to cope”
Stressor- an event or set of conditions that cause stress response
Stress- body’s physiological response Strain-body’s longer term reaction to chronic stress
Sources of stress at workIntrinsic to job
•Work overload •Time pressure
Role in organization
•Role ambiguity•Role conflict
Career development
•Lack of job security•promotions
Relationship at work
•Delegation responsibility•Superior subordinate
Org. structure & climate
•Lack in decision making •Effective coordination
Causes Low salaries Heavy workloads Job security Work/life balance Extra time Unrealistic job expectations Managers inability to recognize & solution for stress Lack of opportunity for growth and advancement
How Stress Affect You.?Physical Symptoms
Headaches Stomach Problem Eating Disorder Fatigue Muscle Ache
Psychological & behavioral Anxiety Irritability Low Morale Depression Alcohol &
Drug Use Feeling Powerless
If Exposure To Stressors Continues
Physical Condition
Heart Disease Stroke Diabetes Asthma Immune System
Dysfunction
Psychological & behavioral
Serious depression Suicidal behavioral Domestic violence Alcohol abuse Burnout Unmotivated
Overall effects….. Disability and Accidents Workers' Compensation Claims Absenteeism Presenteeism Less productivity Financial return
Gender Influence Both men and women are prone to same amount of stressors
at workplace But the influence of stress is more upon females.
Causes of Stress in Women Dual responsibilities of professional as well as family life Decimation on basis of gender at workplace Inability to take up better or different jobs due to family
pressure Mentally weak Harassments
Managing the Occupational Stress
New Technology Shift Work Working Conditions Queen Bee Syndrome Deadlines Commuting to Work Job Satisfaction Job Security Boredom
Being the Boss Accepting New Jobs Longer Working
Hours Lack of Enthusiasm
Methods to Combat Occupational Stress
Individual Basis Balance between work and family or personal life Create support network of friends and coworkers and talk
out openly Maintain relaxed and positive outlook/attitude Have realistic expectations Have a balanced diet Practice relaxation and meditation Have thorough medical check up at frequent intervals
Corporate Basis
Praise and appraisals for employees. Opportunities for career development Talk to individual employees, if possible or else to their first
supervisors Carry on group discussions with employees Measure employee perceptions of job, working conditions,
stress, satisfaction for the employees Analyze the data and identify the problem Find out remedial measures
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