Workplace Stress

Abstract

According to American Psychologist Association, workplace stress is at its peak due to uncertain economic situation all over the world (American Psychological Association, 2012). Drastic changes in organization structure, lay off, mergers and downsizing are some important reasons behind unemployment. Many organizations are not able to operate on a large scale. They had to reduce the size of the company and departments. As a result, employees are transferred to other departments regardless of their expertise and job description. This gives rise to workplace stress due to decreased job satisfaction and increased demands. This paper aims to analyze the factors behind workplace stress, its significance in the long run and outcomes and result for employees and organization. An action plan will be suggested, explaining how workplace stress can be managed by managers and employees.

Table of Content

Abstract2

Introduction4

Discussion4

Workplace Stress4

Nature of Workplace Stress4

Significance of Workplace Stress6

Outcomes of Stress On people6

Outcomes of Stress in Organization7

Corporate Action Plan7

Conclusion9

References10

Workplace Stress

Introduction

Workplace stress is considered as one of the biggest challenges faced by workers and organizations today. It not only affects a worker's physical health but also his psychological condition in the long run. It is natural that if an employee is stressed out at work, he is less productive and motivated. This in turn, has adverse affects on organization's overall effectiveness and efficiency. Poor health of employees will hinder their performance and work. They will not be able to work under pressure even if it is positive pressure for the purpose of improving an organization's productivity. Managing and reducing workplace stress is important for successful running of organizations. The most important resource of the organization is its people and taking care of both their physical and psychological health should be their primary concern.

Discussion

Workplace Stress

Stress at a workplace is the result of pressure and demands of the job. When an employee is unable to meet to those demands due to lack of experience, qualification, abilities or knowledge, he cannot perform.

Nature of Workplace Stress

Spiers suggest that workplace stress is a human reaction to excessive demands and pressure. Stress can occur both at workplace and home. Since people spend more than half of their day at workplace, it is very important to address the problem (Spiers, 2003,p.1). Organizations initially did not pay attention to the issue , but researchers have suggested it as one of the most important issues of concern.

Stress is a subjective word. What is stressful for one person might not be so stressful for another. Every individual has different threshold level of resistance and patience. Some people take pressure as a challenge and are more productive. Others tend to break down under too much pressure or demands, thinking that they are incompetent and incapable. Some people are actually incapable of dealing with work pressure due to their inadequacy and lack of skills.

According to Hans Selye, a very renowned Canadian physician, expert in the field of stress management, suggested that a person facing the stress basically goes through following three stages or reacts in ...