Job Stress in terms of Job Demand-Control Model: Causes, Effects and Prevention

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to present job stress in terms of causes, effects and prevention according to the Job Demand-Control Model. Job stress results from the interaction of job demands and job control. The consistent finding reveals that the combination of low job control and high job demands is associated with mental strain. If such stress is chronic and not manageable, it will affect the people themselves and their organizations. Many studies indicate that work stress can affect people physically and mentally. Work stress can also affect the organization in that it can lead to people’s absence and resignation from their jobs. It can cause accidents and damage production as well. Presently, stress measuring tools have been developed to screen work stress. In additions, ways to prevent and to help workers manage work stress have also been developed. These tools and ways can help all parties involved as they can be applied to best suit their organizations.