How job stress can build resilience

Resilience refers to a person’s ability to adapt to adversity. At work, resilience can be crucial for individuals as they deal with restructuring, new technology, mergers/acquisitions, and many other workplace changes. On a daily basis, resilience can help individuals deal with stress that accompanies tight deadlines and changing expectations. Researchers Crane and Searle (2016) in the Journal of Occupational Health Psychology examined the types of stressors that can make individuals more resilient and less likely to experience psychological strain.

There are two common types of workplace stressors: challenge stressors and hindrance stressors. Challenge stressors allow for personal development. They help to grow an individual’s capabilities by helping to push boundaries. In contrast, hindrance stressors inhibit personal growth and are often obstacles that prevent individuals from accomplishing goals. These can include things such as: conflicting job responsibilities, unclear job expectations, or organizational constraints.

The researchers (Crane & Searle, 2016) found that when individuals encounter challenge stressors at work, they report more resilience three months later. On the other hand, when individuals encounter hindrance stressors at work, they report less resilience and more strain three months later. Therefore, the results indicate that exercising perseverance through challenge stressors is the key to building resilience. However, resilience is depleted from experiencing hindrance stressors.

In terms of organizational application, the researchers (Crane & Searle, 2016) suggest that individuals manage the meaning of stressors. In other words, stressors should be considered as opportunities for growth. Rather than framing the stressor as a barrier or burden, frame it as a challenge and learning opportunity. Viewing the stressors positively, rather than negatively, can really impact how stressors impact resilience.