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Psychophysiological Stress Assessment Using Biofeedback
Published on: July 31, 2009
Building-related symptoms and stress indicators
A M Hansen1, H W Meyer, F Gyntelberg
1National Institute of Occupational Health, Copenhagen, Denmark. aamh@ami.dk
Indoor Air
|October 1, 2008
Summary
Job strain in teachers was linked to physiological stress and building-related symptoms (BRS), particularly in women. Higher free testosterone was noted in BRS-positive women, suggesting a complex relationship between work environment and health.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Health
- Psychophysiology
- Environmental Health
Background:
- Building-related symptoms (BRS) are common among teachers.
- The relationship between psychosocial work environment, BRS, and physiological stress requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine physiological stress indicators in relation to BRS prevalence among teachers.
- To test hypotheses on the association between psychosocial work environment, BRS, and physiological strain.
Main Methods:
- Study conducted in three Copenhagen schools.
- Investigated perceived psychosocial work environment (job strain), BRS, and physiological strain.
- Analyzed associations including physiological stress indicators and serum testosterone levels.
Main Results:
- A tendency for association between job strain and BRS was found among women.
- Job strain was associated with physiological strain in women.
- BRS positivity was linked to higher serum free testosterone in women, but not other single physiological indicators.
Conclusions:
- Physiological stress indicators can supplement questionnaires in BRS research.
- Job strain is associated with physiological strain in female teachers.
- This preliminary study highlights potential psychophysiological links in the workplace.
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