Psychological Risk Factors
Besides physical stress, some parts of a job can also lead to psychological stress. This kind of stress can make a person more likely to suffer from musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), especially when the stress becomes overwhelming.
For example, if a worker feels pressure to finish tasks quickly and has no control over how the job is done, they may experience distress. Distress is more serious than regular stress. While normal stress can help someone stay alert and focused, distress can lead to poor health and risky behavior. A worker under distress might forget to follow safety rules, take unsafe shortcuts, or become distracted. This raises the chance of both injuries and accidents on the job.
Imagine a worker who has to meet a strict production quota. If they are constantly watched and fear punishment for mistakes, they may feel anxious and tense. That tension might cause them to use awkward postures or rush through tasks, leading to shoulder or back injuries.
Researchers are now studying job conditions like performance monitoring, pay based on productivity, and strict deadlines to see how these affect the body. These mental pressures may cause muscle tension, fatigue, and pain—just like heavy lifting or awkward movements do.
Another area researchers are looking into is why some people develop long-term pain or disability from injuries that start out small. They are trying to find out if stress at work, personal issues, or pressures from society are part of the problem.
In short, feeling out of control, having too many demands, or working in a tense environment can increase the risk of both physical and mental harm. Employers must be aware of these risks and try to create a healthy work setting for everyone.
Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.
3-4. Which of the following will likely increase psychological stress on the job?
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