1 Stress OS 386 October 8, 2002 Fisher

2 Agenda Discuss workplace stress Identify common stressors In-class stress assessment

3 Types of stress Stress is a response to environmental stimulus Eustress – Positive stress – Activates, motivates people Distress – Negative stress – Overload What causes eustress for some people could cause distress for others

4 Eustress vs. distress? Exam later this week Person feels confident, has planned time to study Person is unprepared, has four other exams Eustress Distress

5 Sources of work-related stress Workload Role conflict or ambiguity Time pressure Lack of control Physical environment – Noise, lighting, lack of privacy – Safety hazards

6 Stress and expectancy theory Recall from motivation theory, individuals make judgments about: Effort  performance  outcomes Uncertainty in making these judgments results in stress

7 Interpersonal stressors at work Dealing with customers Teamwork Sexual harassment Workplace violence Workplace bullying

8 Consequences of stress Physiological – Muscular tension – Heart disease, strokes Psychological – Dissatisfaction – Burnout Behavioral – Absenteeism – Aggression

9 Personal stress Can affect behavior at work Both positive and negative events can cause stress Is harder to diagnose – Coworkers and supervisor may be unaware

10 Personal Stress Assessment Social Readjustment Rating Scale – Complete ratings – Add total score Interpretation – Total score over 300: very high – Total score : moderate – Total score less than 150: low

11 Individual differences related to stress Self-efficacy, locus of control affect reactions to stressful events Physical resistance to stress – Age – health Type A personality

12 Stress management Remove the stressor Withdraw from the stressor Change reactions to stress – Reduce physiological consequences – Seek counseling – Increase social support Focus in work-related interventions is usually to change reactions

13 For next class Study for the exam – 30 multiple choice questions (1 point each) Definitions, concepts Application – 2 of 3 short essay questions (5 points each) Some choice Answers should be 1-2 paragraphs Will cover material from lecture, discussions, and readings Bring a #2 pencil!