WAYS TO EVALUATE STRESS AT WORK WORKING FOR TFL

Ways to evaluate stress at work working for TFL

[Course Name]

[2009]

Acknowledgement

I would take this opportunity to thank my research supervisor, family and friends for their support and guidance without which this research would not have been possible.

Abstract

In this study we try to explore the concept of work related stress in a holistic context. The main focus of the research is on work related stress and its relation with the employees of TFL(Transport for London). The research also analyzes many aspects of stress and tries to gauge its effect on TFL's employees. Finally the research describes various factors which are responsible for occupational stress and tries to describe the overall effect of stress on TFL employees/members.

Table of Contents

Acknowledgement2

Abstract3

Chapter 1: Introduction5

Background of the study5

Problem Statement6

Significance/need of the study7

Purpose Of The Project8

Objectives Of The Project8

The Report Plan8

Chapter 2: Literature Review9

Justification of the study16

Chapter 3: Method18

Research Design18

Literature Search18

Keywords18

Chapter 4: Findings19

Chapter 5: Discussion22

Chapter 6: Conclusions24

Bibliography26

Chapter 1: Introduction

Background of the study

In the United Kingdom and elsewhere, there has been a recent surge in interest in occupational stress, sparked by the dramatic figures on the financial costs to business and to the economy. Studies carried out by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) identified customer verbal abuse and physical violence as well as work-related stress as the most important causes of occupational health problems. (Tosi, 2000, pp 193-213) A report published by the Health and Safety Executive has revealed Britain's most stressful occupations. The occupational groups reporting the highest levels of stress most commonly were teaching, followed by nursing, management, social workers, road transport and security workers, including police. In all these groups at least one in five reported high stress. (Michie, 2002, pp. 67)

Stress is a fundamental component of being alive. Although we usually associate it with an unpleasant event, any situation, which challenges us, or involves risk, or necessitates change and adjustment in our lives, is potentially stressful. (Smither, 2008, pp62-67)This may be something as wonderful as a new relationship, or moving to a new home, or as threatening as poor grades, interpersonal difficulties or not having enough time to complete course requirements. Whatever the source of our stress, our brain interprets the situation as threatening and reacts by mobilizing our defense system, resulting in physical and psychological symptoms which we can all recognize from our past experiences. Furthermore, our reactions may not only be unhelpful in the present moment, but over a prolonged period of time poorly handled stress can lead to serious health risks. We may also incorporate coping mechanisms which in the long term become a problem in themselves, such as inappropriate use of alcohol, drugs, food and sleep. It makes sense to learn to manage stress more effectively for the well being of your self and the people surrounding you. Stress however despite its many negative side effects still remains an essential part of our lives as a driving force to keep active and motivated. The skill of managing ...