Is occupational stress a world epidemic of modern times? Some people claim it is, while others disagree (Rossi et al., 2009). Regardless, stress has become a growing concern in the modern world and is reported to be a considerable occupational health concern in major economies, including Europe and United States. Yet, there is neither an agreed nor precise definition of occupational stress. The term stress often has negative implications, however, stress reactions do not always need to be harmful. Instead, certain stress levels can increase motivation and help people grow and develop. Stress that is positive to people can be referred to eustress, while stress that impacts people in a negative manner is referred to distress …show more content…
A healthy and rewarding job is a sufficient and positive part of peoples’ lives and gives them the opportunity to feel satisfied and meaningful in their workplace. However, stress will arise when a job does not let the individual to perform to the best of his ability. Occupational stress is the response employees may have when presented with work demands and pressures that are not matched to their abilities and knowledge. Work-related stress occurs under various circumstances, but it is often seen to be even worse when employees experience little or no support from supervisors and colleagues (WHO, …show more content…
Role conflict occurs due to incompatibility of two or more roles (work, family, religious etc). In certain situations an individual’s various roles may have conflicting demands, which may lead to stress due to difficulties to fulfill the conflicting role requirements (Reddy, 2004).
Group stressors
The group can also be a potential source of stress and major group stressors are the following:
• Lack of group cohesiveness: it is important with group cohesiveness for an individual’s interaction in a group. When people get denied such cohesiveness, it may cause stress.
• Lack of social support: Individuals who receive social support from other group members are able to satisfy their social needs. They feel better when they can share their problems and delights with others. Although, it becomes stressful for those individuals who do not get this social support.
• Conflict: Conflicts that arise in-group interactions can cause considerable stress for the group members (Reddy, 2004).
Organizational stressors
An organization constitutes of groups and individuals, hence, both individual- and group stressors may take place in an organizational context. The major organizational stressors are as