Relationship between the level of stress and the sociodemographic and labor characteristics of supermarket workers, Chillán, 2023

Abstract

Introduction: People can develop in different environments, which can generate stress, including work. Work-related stress is the psychological, cognitive, and behavioral reaction that occurs when the demands of the work environment exceed the worker’s ability to cope.

Method: Analytic study with a correlative approach. The sample was composed of 115 workers/s from supermarkets in Chillán. To characterize the sample, the sociodemographic and labor questionnaire and the adapted Work Stress Test were applied and validated in 2021. Eligibility and exclusion criteria were considered, informed consents were applied and the scientific ethics committee of the Adventist University was approved.

Results: The studied population was characterized by being mainly male, of young adult age and with diversity in terms of schooling. It was found that workers with limited time contracts had higher levels of stress and an association was observed between low schooling and stress levels (p ≤ 0.050).

Conclusions: Work-related stress can have a significant impact on workers’ physical and mental health, as well as productivity and the work environment. It is important to address workplace stress effectively through the implementation of strategies by employees as well as employers.