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Occupational Differences in the Work-Strain Relationship: Towards the Use of Situation-Specific Models

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From Stress to Wellbeing Volume 1

Abstract

Throughout the history of occupational stress research, numerous models have been postulated in an attempt to explain the work-strain relationship (e.g. Ivancevich & Matteson, 1980; Quick & Quick, 1984; Tetrick & LaRocco, 1987). One of the most influential and well-known models is the demand-control theory. The model was developed by Karasek (1979), who proposed that the joint effects of ‘demands’ and the ‘range of decision-making freedom available to the worker’ (i.e. job control) were important in predicting strain outcomes. A key aspect of the model is the interactive relationship between job demands and job control. Karasek & Theorell (1990) argue that the risk of psychological strain and physical illness increases in a demanding job only when these demands occur in interaction with low job control.

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© 2013 Kate Sparks and Cary L. Cooper

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Sparks, K., Cooper, C.L. (2013). Occupational Differences in the Work-Strain Relationship: Towards the Use of Situation-Specific Models. In: Cooper, C.L. (eds) From Stress to Wellbeing Volume 1. Palgrave Macmillan, London. https://doi.org/10.1057/9781137310651_15

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