fer, however, on the importance of worker characteristics versus working conditions as the primary cause of job stress. These differing viewpoints are important because they suggest different ways to prevent stress at work.Differences in individual characteristics such as personality and coping style are most important in predicting whether certain job conditions will result in stress-in other words, what is stressful for one person may not be a problem for someone else (Sauter and Hurrell, 1999). This viewpoint leads to prevention strategies that focus on workers and ways to help them cope with demanding job conditions. Although the importance of individual differences cannot be ignored, scientific evidence suggests that certain working conditions are stressful to most people. The following is a list of job conditions that may lead to occupational stress according to Hurrell, Nelson and Simmons (1998).Job Conditions That May Lead to StressThe Design of Tasks: Heavy workload, infrequent rest breaks, long work hours and shiftwork; hectic and routine tasks that have little inherent meaning, do not utilize workers' skills, and provide little sense of control. Management Style: Lack of participation by workers in decision- making, poor communication in the organization, lack of family-friendly policies.Interpersonal Relationships: Poor social environment and lack of support or help from coworkers and supervisors.Work Roles: Conflicting or uncertain job expectations, too much responsibility, too many "hats to wear." For example employees are often caught in a difficult situation trying to satisfy both the customer's needs and the company's expectations.Career Concerns: Job insecurity and lack of opportunity for growth, advancement, or promotion; rapid changes for which workers are unprepared.Environmental Conditions: Unpleasant or dangerous physical conditions such as crowding, noise, air pollution, or ergonomic problems. Outcomes of Occupa...
