Substantiating the concept of work strain: its implication for the assessment of work stressors
Karolina Szerencsi1, Ludovic van Amelsvoort, Ijmert Kant
1Maastricht University, School CAPHRI, Department of Epidemiology, Maastricht, the Netherlands. karolina.szerencsi@maastrichtuniversity.nl
Objective:
To assess which work stressors are substantially contributing to work strain and examine their relative contribution.
Methods:
We prospectively examined the association between work stressors and work strain, which was defined as employees reporting ill due to work stress. Relevant work stressors were combined into a stressor score with each stressor having its own relevance. Standardized odds ratios (SORs) were calculated using logistic regression analysis and used to compare the associations obtained between already existing scales and the stressor score with work strain.
Results:
The stressor score yielded an SOR of 1.89 (95% confidence interval: 1.49 to 2.41) for work strain, while psychological demands (JCQ) yielded an SOR of 1.46 (95% confidence interval: 1.09 to 1.88) for work strain.
Conclusions:
We were able to extend and substantiate the range of relevant work stressors into a more comprehensive measure, which should be used to optimize prevention strategies.
Related Concept Videos
Strain Energy
Consider a rod that is fixed at one end and subjected to an axial force at the free end. This axial force induces stress within the rod, leading to its elongation. As the axial force increases, so does the elongation of the rod, illustrating a direct relationship between the force applied and the resulting...
Stress and Mental Health
Individuals with depression often experience challenges in both their personal and professional...
Introduction to Stress and Lifestyle
Stress: General Loading Conditions
The shearing force, possessing potential directionality within the plane of the section, is simplified into two component forces running parallel to the x and y axes.
Applications of Stress
The...
True Stress and True Strain
In contrast, true stress offers a more precise portrayal. It is computed by dividing the...


