Stress Characteristics in Different Work Conditions: Is it Possible to Identify Specificity of Risk Factors by the Questionnaire Method?

Abstract

The aim of this study is to identify, by a brief ad hoc questionnaire, specific dimensions of perceived occupational stress that could be relevant in two different work conditions of female workers: visual display unit (VDU) operators, for whom the risk of work-related stress is already known in literature, and kindergarten teachers, for whom very few studies have examined this risk. A questionnaire, prepared specifically for workers, was filled in by 70 all-female kindergarten teachers and 70 all-female VDU operators. The two groups were matched for age and length of service. The questionnaire was examined by factor analysis and questionnaire single item scores. Total score and factor scores were examined between group comparison of means analysis. The level of significance was established at p<0.05. Kindergarten teachers show significantly higher values of the questionnaire total score than VDU operators, indicating a higher level of perceived stress related to their occupation. In particular, the factor scores concerning perceived load of work responsibilities, the first of the three factors accounting for the structure of the questionnaire (1. perceived load of work-responsibility; 2. independence and autonomy in performing work-duties; 3. negative features of work interfering with psycho-physical wellbeing) are significant between groups. Compared to VDU operators, kindergarten teachers perceive a more stressful condition of responsibility in taking independent decisions and autonomously managing their work. When appropriate comparisons are performed between groups of workers operating under different occupational conditions, it is possible to identify, using an ad hoc questionnaire, different sources of occupational stress which are effective in the work environment of different categories of female workers.