Factors contributing to occupational stress experienced by individuals employed in the fast food industry

Article type: Research Article

Authors: Michailids, Maria P. | Elwkai, Mouafak E-ali

Affiliations: Intercollege (University College), Nicosia 1700, Cyprus

Note: [] Address for correspondence: Department of Education, Psychology & MBA, Intercollege (University College), P.O. BOX 24005, Nicosia 1700, Cyprus. Tel.: +357 356459; Fax: +357 357665; E-mail: [email protected]

Abstract: The present study, examined through survey research methodology, the factors or combination of factors which appear to contribute to the experience of occupational stress of individuals working in the fast-food industry. The Occupational Stress Indicator was used. Preliminary findings showed that there exists, several compound factors, which appear to be the most frequently encountered factors by the sample tested, such as the way they feel about their job; the way they behave generally; the way they interpret events around them; the sources of pressure in their job; and the way they cope with stress they experience. It appears that there are statistically significant differences between males and females as regards to the way they respond to stress, the sources of pressure in their job and the way they cope with stress they experience. Also, statistically significant differences exist between individuals in managerial and non-managerial positions, as regards to their personality type, the degree of ambition, and work dedication they possess.

Journal: Work, vol. 21, no. 2, pp. 125-140, 2003