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Work Stress Factors

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AIPM

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Systematic Stress Management Program

Step 2: Stress Management at Work

Many factors contribute to work stress. Some factors are more important than others, but each can be influential. Think about each one listed below and make a judgment on whether or not it is a factor in your work stress.

Instructions: Give yourself a (-) next to the factors that contribute to your stress levels. Or, a (+) to those that do not. Leave it blank if it’s neutral.

I. Nature of the Job

*  Poor working conditions

*  Work overload or underload

*  Physical hazards

*  Salary

*  Extremely difficult or extremely easy tasks

*  Excessive physical effort

*  Inconvenient hours

*  Repetitive, dehumanizing environment

II. Work Relationships

*  Poor relationships with co-workers, supervisor, or staff

*  Problems in giving assignments to others

*  Competition among employees

*  Not accepted by fellow workers

III. Organization Role

*  Unclear job description

*  Conflicting job demands

*  Too much responsibility for people

*  Too much responsibility for things

IV. Career Development

*  Lack of job security

*  Overqualified for job

*  Under qualified for job

*  Ambition is inhibited by boss

*  Inadequate credit for accomplishments

V. Organizational Structure and Atmosphere

*  Little control over decisions

*  Office politics

*  Restrictions on behavior

*  Discouragement of individual expression

*  Being evaluated

VI. Non-Work Factors

*  Family problems

*  Money problems

*  Life satisfaction

*  Life stages

*  Health

This exercise is a good starting place to survey the general nature of the stress you experience on your job. Once sources are identified, corrections can begin.

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