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Theories of Work-Related Stress

The workplace is a major sources of stress for many individuals. Studies have shown that stress in the workplace can have a detrimental effect on your health and can even be fatal. Though people may respond differently to workplace stress, there are some general theories that help categorize the various sources.

  1. Overworked

    • Jobs that leave you feeling overworked are a leading source of stress. These involve positions that are very demanding, have changing deadlines and provide little freedom. Stress may also stem from positions that give you very little control or decision-making power, but require you to put in long hours to the point of burnout.

    Poor Recognition

    • Positions that require your dedication and commitment with little recognition for your efforts are another source of stress. If your boss seems to be the only one that receives the credit, compensation and opportunities for advancement, though you are the one who put in the most hours on a project, you may feel frustrated and stressed-out.

    Isolation

    • For many, the workplace provides a stimulating social environment for peer interaction. If you spend most of your time alone, with little opportunity for feedback, guidance or interaction regarding a project, you may experience isolation stress. Isolation and a lack of feeling that you belong to a team may not only leave you feeling alone, it can also undermine your worth to the company.

    Bullying and Abuse

    • Workplace bullying and abuse are a growing concern. If you are subjected to verbal abuse or harassment from colleagues, your employer or customers, this can create a very stressful and dangerous environment. In some instances workplace abuse is punishable by civil or criminal action.

    Constantly on Call

    • Employees with PDAs and cell phones provided by their employer may also be expected to respond to requests around the clock. The feeling of constantly being on call without any downtime is a significant source of stress.

    Fear of Downsizing

    • Another source of workplace stress is the fear of losing one's job. This may come from talks of company downsizing, outsourcing or your witness to other companies in your industry going through the process. The fear of how you'll cope if you're the victim of a layoff or suffer a major change in your position are significant stress sources.

    Workplace Violence

    • For workers who risk their lives daily in violent confrontations such as police officers, this form of stress is a regular occurrence.

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