OCCUPATIONAL STRESS Meaning and
Definition
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Occupational stress refers to the psychological, emotional, and physical strain experienced by individuals in response to the demands, pressures, and challenges associated with their work. It is a type of stress that arises from the nature of the job itself and the working conditions faced by employees in their respective occupations.
Occupational stress can be caused by a variety of factors, such as excessive workload, job insecurity, low levels of control or autonomy, long working hours, conflicts with coworkers or supervisors, lack of support from superiors, and the overall organizational climate. These stressors can lead to feelings of being overwhelmed, frustrated, and anxious, ultimately affecting an individual's mental and physical well-being.
The consequences of occupational stress can manifest in various ways, including decreased job satisfaction and motivation, reduced productivity and performance, increased absenteeism and turnover rates, as well as negative effects on physical health, such as headaches, fatigue, sleep disturbances, and musculoskeletal problems.
Recognizing and managing occupational stress is important for both the individual and the organization. This may involve implementing stress management programs, providing support systems, improving work-life balance, promoting a healthy work environment, and enhancing communication and feedback channels. By addressing occupational stress, organizations can foster employee well-being, job satisfaction, and overall performance, while individuals can maintain their mental and physical health and achieve a better work-life balance.
Etymology of OCCUPATIONAL STRESS
The word "occupational stress" is derived from two primary sources:
1. Occupational: This term is derived from the Latin word "occupatio", which means "a job, employment, or business". It is connected to the verb "occupare", meaning "to seize, possess, or take up". Over time, the term "occupational" has come to refer to anything related to one's job or profession.
2. Stress: The word "stress" comes from the Middle English term "stresse", which was borrowed from Old French "estresse" meaning "narrowness, oppression, or difficulty". It ultimately originates from the Latin word "strictus", meaning "drawn tight" or "compressed". The concept of stress, as we understand it today, emerged in the mid-20th century and refers to the psychological or physiological responses to various challenging or demanding situations.
