Stress & Well-being

According to the Job Demand-Control Model, which job type is associated with the highest risk of stress-related health problems?

• Active jobs (high demands, high control)

• Passive jobs (low demands, low control)

• High-strain jobs (high demands, low control)

• Low-strain jobs (low demands, high control)

Answer explanation

High work demands coupled with low decision latitude (control) poses the greatest risk for stress-related health problems. Without sufficient control to address high demands, employees experience chronic stress activation without adequate coping mechanisms.

Elijah is trying to balance his demanding job and his family responsibilities. He often feels overwhelmed and struggles to manage his time effectively. Which of the following is the work-life conflict Elijah faces?

• Time-based conflict

• Strain-based conflict

• Resource-based conflict

• Behavior-based conflict

Answer explanation

The three primary forms of work-life conflict are: (1) Time-based conflict, where time devoted to one role makes it difficult to fulfill requirements in another; (2) Strain-based conflict, where stress from one role spills over to another; and (3) Behavior-based conflict, where behaviors effective in one domain are ineffective or counterproductive in another.

Grace is working on a new product launch project. In the Effort-Reward Imbalance Model, which combination creates the highest stress condition for her?

• Low effort + Low reward

• Low effort + High reward

• High effort + High reward

• High effort + Low reward

Answer explanation

The combination of high effort (both extrinsic efforts like workload and intrinsic efforts like overcommitment) with low rewards (including financial rewards, esteem rewards, and career/status rewards) creates the "high cost/low gain" situation that produces the highest stress condition. This imbalance violates the norm of reciprocity in social exchange and leads to sustained stress responses.

Which of the following best characterizes the shift brought about by Positive Psychology?

• From individual to organizational interventions

• From problem-focused to strength-based approaches

• From subjective to objective measurement

• From physical to psychological health focus

Answer explanation

The core paradigm shift is moving beyond merely addressing problems (deficits) toward enhancing positive states and capabilities (strengths). This reflects the broader positive psychology movement initiated by Martin Seligman, emphasizing optimal functioning, employee flourishing, organizational thriving, and preventative approaches rather than just remediation.

Isla has been working hard at her job. She has also been spending quality time with her family due to a flexible work schedule. Isla is said to achieve work-life enrichment.

• True

• False

Answer explanation

Work-life enrichment refers to "the extent to which experiences in one role improve the quality of life in the other role". This perspective emphasizes that participation in multiple roles can be beneficial rather than just conflicting. Resources such as skills, perspectives, psychological resources (like self-confidence), and social capital developed in one domain can transfer to and enhance functioning in another domain.

The most effective organizational stress management programs focus primarily on individual coping strategies rather than organizational changes.

• True

• False

Answer explanation

Organizations implementing comprehensive approaches that combine both individual and organizational interventions see 3-5 times the return on investment compared to those with fragmented initiatives focused on just one level.

Which of the dimensions is not in the PERMA model of workplace wellbeing?

• Positive emotions

• Relationships

• Engagement

• Meaning

• Agility

Answer explanation

The PERMA model, developed by Martin Seligman and applied to workplace contexts, consists of five dimensions of wellbeing: (1) Positive emotions - experiencing pleasant states and feelings at work; (2) Engagement - deep involvement and absorption in meaningful work tasks; (3) Relationships - positive connections and interactions with colleagues; (4) Meaning - sense of purpose and contribution beyond self-interest; and (5) Accomplishment - sense of achievement, mastery, and progress toward goals.

Stress is always detrimental to individual performance and organizational outcomes.

• True

• False

Answer explanation

Not all stress is harmful. Eustress motivates and energizes, enhances focus and performance, and is associated with challenge and growth. Moderate levels of stress can actually improve performance.