Psychological Stress at work is one of the main research fields of the department. There are various research areas in this field. In collaboration with the University of South Florida (Paul Spector), the Ohio University (Peter Chen) and the University of Giessen (Michael Frese) we investigated whether Negative Affectivity (NA) is a nuisance factor in the relationship of job stressors and strains (Zapf).

In a Longitudinal Study we investigated the moderating effect of social support (Dormann, Zapf; see also longitudinal studies). The relation between psychological stress and social support is also investigated in a diary study (Siepe).

Another study compared job stressors of firefighters in action and at the firehouse using the job analysis instrument ISTA (Gorißen; see also page on ISTA). The data showed higher job stressors in action, but higher relationships between job stressors at the firehouse and psychological strain. This issue was further investigated in a longitudinal study (see project on stress among firefighters; German page).

A newer study has been conducted on working conditions in call centers (Isic, Dormann, Zapf; see project on call centers; German page).

Recently, our research on social stressors at work has been intensified. We have been doing research on this topic for quite a long time (Frese & Zapf, 1987; Dormann & Zapf, 1999). However, more recently, we have developed more differentiated theories and measurement instruments. On the one hand, they refer to social stressors within organizations. On the other hand, we have been looking at social conflicts with customers (Dormann & Zapf, 2004).

Researchers

References