A pre-and posttest analaysis of stress levels of employees at Durban Metro Electricity who attended a stress management programme.
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Date
2002
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Abstract
This research study aims to establish the level of success of a particular stress management programme conducted at Durban Metro Electricity. The study explores the levels of stress experienced by employees before and after attending the stress management programme. This required a pre- and posttest analysis. In addition, a t-test was conducted to ascertain significant statistical or quantitative changes in stress levels. The study also explores qualitative data that reflect the perceived stressors that employees feel they face in the workplace. Five different stressors emerged from the qualitative data: management problems, safety issues at work, staff attitude problems, stressful work tasks, and general job stress. The perceived symptoms of stress are physical, emotional and cognitive in nature. The t-test yielded a fifty percent stress reduction result. Whilst this is commendable, it is important to look at further avenues for stress reduction. It is recommended that a multidimensional approach to stress management be implemented in the organisation. It is maintained that it is not enough to train and equip employees with coping skills. Stress management within the organisation should include support systems and resources to help reduce stress. This refers to a system where managers, supervisors and staff come together to actively consider organisational structure, practice and dynamics so as to find creative solutions to reduce stress. The system should also include individual problem-focused stress 90unselling on a regular basis. By implementing stress management strategies beyond a three-day stress management programme, and by encouraging co-operation of management and employees, Durban Metro Electricity can bring about further reductions in stress levels.
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Thesis (M.A.)-University of Natal, Durban, 2002.
Keywords
Job stress., Stress management., Theses--Industrial psychology.