Several theoretical models of workplace psychosocial stressors have been empirically validated, including the Demand-Control-Support (DCS) model and the Effort Reward Imbalance (ERI) model. Karasek's "job strain" model states that the greatest risk to physical and mental health from stress occurs to workers facing high psychological workload demands or pressures combined with low control or decision latitude in meeting those demands. Another broader model of work stress is Johannes Siegrist's "effort-reward imbalance" model. The model defines threatening job conditions as a "mismatch between high workload (high demand) and low control over long-term rewards" In comparison to the DCS model with its emphasis on moment-to-moment control over the work process (i.e. decision latitude), the ERI model provides an expanded concept, emphasizing macro-level, long-term control vis-à-vis rewards such as career opportunities, job security, esteem and income. The ERI model also integrates the exigencies and rewards of the job with the individual's input and coping style.

This session describes three main approaches for measurement of job characteristics: self-report questionnaires (e.g., Job Content Questionnaire, Effort-Reward Imbalance questionnaire, Occupational Stress Index); imputation of job characteristics scores based on aggregate data (e.g. national job title averages); and external assessment (e.g. supervisor or coworker ratings, job analysis by expert observers). Use of multiple methods of assessment of job characteristics allows for triangulation. We review important research results, highlight advantages and limitations of each method and discuss some issues to be resolved through future research. We recommend multi-method strategies, for convergent validation, using as many of these approaches as possible.

Faculty contributors: Peter Schnall, Karen Belkic, Paul Landsbergis

Questionnaire Practicum: Practicum: JCQ, ERI reviewed in detail

Readings:

Measurement of psychosocial workplace exposure variables. In: Schnall PL, Belkic K, Landsbergis PA, Baker D (eds.) Occupational Medicine: State of the Art Review. The Workplace and Cardiovascular Disease. 2000; 15(1): 163-188.

Johnson JV, Hall EM. Class, work, and health. In: Amick B, Levine S, Tarlov AR, Walsh DC (eds.): Society and Health. New York, Oxford University Press, 1995, pp. 247-271.

Karasek RA, Theorell T. Healthy Work: Stress, productivity and the reconstruction of working life. New York. Basic Books, Inc., 1990, pp.31-82.

Stressors at the Workplace: Theoretical Models. In: Schnall PL, Belkic K, Landsbergis PA, Baker D (eds.) Occupational Medicine: State of the Art Review. The Workplace and Cardiovascular Disease. 2000; 15 (1): 73-87.