Introduction
Stress poses a great challenge to everyone – varying from a simple student to an assiduous
worker. It is almost impossible to live without it. Seeing that everyone is vulnerable to stress at
one time or another, government employees may be vulnerable and exposed to it twice or even
thrice as much. Working in an environment wherein you deal with different people is
strenuous enough. In view of this fact, students use different coping and defense mechanisms
to help them manage stress. There are a lot of different coping and defense mechanisms that
There are multiple frameworks which apply directly to understanding stress and the
role that coping plays in managing stress. These theories can provide a basis for understanding
how methods of coping influence the level of stress an individual experiences when faced with
a potential stressor.
Two main categories of stress coping theories exist. The first category is trait based
theories, which focus on coping as a product of personality among all diverse life situations.
Many of these theories are based on Selye’s (2011) work in systemic stress, which related
stress to physiological responses. Examples of trait based theories include Byrne’s (2009)
Gleser and Ihilevich’s (2009) Defense Mechanisms Inventory which assesses an individual’s
reference between five protective actions, and Goldstein’s (2011) measure of coping-avoiding,
which relates reactions to personality characteristics.
preference for the use of specific coping mechanisms, research indicates that it has a low
predictive value in regard to the coping process, and may underestimate the complexity of the
coping process (Cohen & Lazarus, 2010; Kaloupek, White, & Wong, 2009).
The second category of stress coping theories looks at coping as a process and is well
defined by Lazarus’ (2010) theory which views coping as a process characterized by the
(Folkman et al., 2011). This theory is especially relevant to the research of coping mechanisms
used by agriculture teachers and serves as the framework for this study.
According to Lazarus (2010, coping is a process which is based on shifts in the way an
individual views a potential stressor. The way a person views the stressor is based on the
outcome he/she expects from the situation. This view of a stressor was originally called an
“appraisal” by Arnold (2009) and elaborated by Lazarus in regard to stress (2010). Shifts in
the way an individual views stress may come from the environment or situations outside of the
individual’s control, or they may come from efforts to manage the stress by the individual.
This theory suggests that research examining coping mechanisms related to a specific event,
rather than as generalized statements, will yield a more accurate appraisal of individual coping
strategies.
CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK
1. Profile
1.1 Age
1.2 Gender
1.3 Position
1.4 Civil Status
1.5 No. Of yrs in Basis for Stress
service Management
Program
Questionnaire
2. Common
Symptoms
Encountered
by the
employees
2.1 Physical
2.2 Emotional
2.3 Intellectual
2.4 Social
2.5 Moral/
Spiritual
This study, Stress and Work Performance of Government Employees of the Municipal
Government of Ternate: An Analysis aims to identify the stress factors and how they affect the
1.2.1.1 Age
1.2.1.2 Gender
1.2.1.3 Position
1.2. 2 What are the common symptoms encountered by the respondents as to the following
aspects?
1.2.1.1 Physical;
1.2.1.2 Emotional;
1.2.1.3 Intellectual;
1.2.3 Based on the common symptoms identified, what coping mechanism is/are employed by
1.2.1.1 Physical;
1.2.1.2 Emotional;
1.2.1.3 Intellectual;
Mainly, the importance of conducting this research is to find out whether the coping
mechanisms being used by the employees are effective in dealing with their common
encountered symptoms.
Employees. The results of this study will give them knowledge on how they can manage their
stress.
Municipal Government of Ternate . It would encourage the Local Chief Executive to make a
plan that will help the employees in dealing with their encountered symptoms/ stressors.
Community. This study will help the community to understand more about the employees
This study will focus on determining the identify the stress factors and how they affect the
Government of Ternate, Cavite and the study was conducted through survey method wherein
questionnaires were disseminated to the target population. Data collected was interpreted
Stress has no significant effect on the work performance of the municipal employees.
Definition of Terms
For purposes and clarification, the following terms are defined according to how the
Psychological stress - in this research, it cannot be solely confined in the environment itself or
person-environment relationship and therefore the struggle to adapt to life may be termed
stress.
Distress - In this research, it is described as the destructive type of, distinguished by anger and
aggression.
associated with emphatic concerns for others and positive striving that would benefit the
community.
Process of Stress - In this research, it can be divided into three levels. The first level of
stressors are come from external sources or specific occupational stressors. The second level
can be seen as variables that act as a buffer against the negative effects of stress on
individuals. The third level in the process consists of the outcomes of stress which can be
positive or negative.
Appraisal - can be made in three different conditions: when we have experienced a stressor,
when we anticipate a stressor and when we experience a chance for mastery or gain
Coping Styles - Employed by people when attempting to resolve or remove a stressor: There
are three styles: Problem-focused coping, Emotion-focused coping and Avoidant coping.
Problem-focused Coping - involves altering or managing the problem that is causing the
stress and is highly action focused. This involves a number of strategies such as gathering
emotion-focused coping is active.It can also be described as cognitive and behavioural efforts
Coping Mechanisms - are ways to which external or internal stress is managed, adapted to or
unconscious choice and that enhances control over behavior or gives psychological comfort. It
unresolved or undesired.
Stress - Is used in this research as a psychological factor and a common feature in almost
The researcher reviewed and analyzed several related literature's and studies to obtain a better
perspectives of the problems presented in Chapter II. Those found helpful were used in the
Related Literature
The Coping and Stress Profile is a unique, self-directed learning instrument that provides
personalized feedback on an individual’s responses to the stress and coping resources they
have. The profile uses an engaging process of personal learning that helps individuals uncover
and explore: Stressors in their personal and professional life; Coping resources that can be
used to decrease stress; The level of satisfaction in their personal and work life; The
relationship among stress, coping resources, and overall satisfaction; An action plan to reduce
Psychological stress, according to Lazarus (2010) cannot besolely confined in the environment
life may be termed stress. Other words that have been used in the past as a substitute for stress
are: conflict, frustration, trauma, anomie, alienation, anxiety, depression, 4 and emotional
distress (Lazarus 2010 ). Hans Selye (2011 divided stress into two types, i.e. distress and
eustress. Distress is described as the destructive type of, distinguished by anger and aggression
while eustress is described as the constructive type distinguished by emotions associated with
emphatic concerns for others and positive striving that would benefit the community. Lazarus
(2010) does not believe this is an adequate description and suggests something further by
challenge. In harm/loss it is recognized that the damage or loss has already taken place. Threat
then focuses on harm or loss that has not yet occurred but is likely to in the near future.
Challenge sees that although difficulties may be encountered when something needs to be
gained, these difficulties may be overcome. These three types are coped with differently and
According to Carson and Kuipers (2009), the process of stress can be divided into
three levels. In the first level there are stressors that come from external sources, e.g. high job
demands, a lack of resources and lack of support from supervisors and colleagues – these are
specific occupational stressors. The second level can be seen as variables that act as a buffer
against the negative effects of stress on individuals. The third level in the process consists of
Coping is a process that we as individuals employ every day.We engage in coping when we
feel under stress or want to manage a taxing situation. The process of coping involves two
components, appraisal and coping (Lazarus, 2010). Appraisal is the act of perceiving a
stressor and analyzing one's own ability to deal with the stressor. Appraisal can be made in
three different conditions: when we have experienced a stressor, when we anticipate a stressor
and when we experience a chance for mastery or gain (Lazarus,2010). Once we appraise a
stressful situation we must decide how we will respond or ‘cope’ with the stressor, either
choosing to master it, reduce it or tolerate it. The coping style we engage in is ultimately
determined by whether we believe we have the resources to resolve the stressor (Lazarus,
2010).
employ when attempting to resolve or remove a stressor: problem-focused coping, emotion-
focused coping and avoidant coping. Problem-focused coping involves altering or managing
the problem that is causing the stress and is highly action focused. Individuals engaging in
problem-focused coping focus their attention on gathering the required resources (i.e. skills,
tools and knowledge) necessary to deal with the stressor. This involves a number of strategies
such as gathering information, resolving conflict, planning and making decisions (Lazarus &
Folkman, 2010). Emotion-focused coping can take a range of forms such as seeking social
support, acceptance and venting of emotions etc (Carver et al., 2009. Although emotion-
focused coping styles are quite varied they all seek to lessen the negative emotions associated
with the stressor, thus emotion-focused coping is action-orientated (Admiraal, Korthagen, &
Wubbels, 2011; Folkman & Lazarus, 2010). The third main coping style is avoidant coping.
Avoidant coping can be described as cognitive and behavioural efforts directed towards
minimizing, denying or ignoring dealing with a stressful situation (Holahan, Holahan, Moos,
Brennan, & Schutte, 2011). Although some researchers group avoidant coping with emotion-
focused coping the styles are conceptually distinct. Avoidant coping is focused on ignoring a
stressor and is therefore passive, whereas emotion-focused coping is active (Admiraal et al.,
based on conscious or unconscious choice and that enhances control over behavior or gives
psychological comfort.
It can be described as the sum total of ways in which we deal with minor to major stress
trauma. Some of these processes are unconscious ones, others are learned behavior and still
others are skills we consciously master in order to reduce stress or other intense emotions like
depression.
Stress and coping are complicated constructs to define. According to Crotty (2009) the
ultimate definition of stress and coping lies within the experience of the individual. This
experience is also defined by the coping mechanisms that a person has developed. Given this,
literature exploring Erikson’s (2008), eight developmental stages which detail, the conditions
that shape an individual's ability to manage and cope with various stress experiences will be
presented as well as Stewart’s (2010) three stages that a graduate student experiences during
their tenure in school. In this literature review these topics will be explored.
Foreign Literature
Stress Management
It may seem that there’s nothing you can do about stress. The bills won’t stop coming, there
will never be more hours in the day, and your career and family responsibilities will always be
demanding. But you have more control than you might think. In fact, the simple realization
that you’re in control of your life is the foundation of stress management. Managing stress is
all about taking charge: of your thoughts, emotions, schedule, and the way you deal with
problems
STRESS MANAGEMENT
Stress is defined as a response to a demand that is placed upon you. Stress in a normal
reaction when your brain recognizes a threat. When the threat is perceived, your body releases
hormones that activate your “fight or flight” response. This fight or flight response is not
limited to perceiving a threat, but in less severe cases, is triggered when we encounter
feeling that a person experiences when they perceive that the demands exceed the personal
and social resources the individual is able to mobilize.” For most people, stress is a negative
experience.
Stress may cause you to have physiological, behavioral or even psychological effects.
Physiological – hormone release triggers your fight or flight response. These hormones help
you to either fight harder or run faster. They increase heart rate, blood pressure, and sweating.
Stress has been tied to heart disease. Because of the increase in heart rate and blood pressure,
prolonged stress increases the tension that is put on the arteries. It also affects your immune
system which is why cold and flu illness usually show up during exams.
Behavioral – it may cause you to be jumpy, excitable, or even irritable. The effects of stress
may cause some people to drink or smoke heavily, neglect exercise or proper nutrition, or
Psychological – the response to stress may decrease your ability to work or interact effectively
with other people, and be less able to make good decisions. Stress has also been known to play
Stressors are anything that cause or increase stress. Below are a few examples:
1. Academics – by far the biggest stressor for college students: the pressure of not failing.
heated topics, slow moving traffic, trying to find a parking spot, etc.
4. Extracurricular – some students may feel pressured to make extracurricular activities a
part of their daily routine to the point where every hour of the day is accounted for.
5. Peers – peer pressure is a major stressor, especially pressure that is negatively influenced.
6. Time Management – one of the biggest stressors is not knowing how to plan and execute
daily activities such as class, work, study time, extracurricular activities, and time alone.
7. Money – some student find themselves thinking more about money than they do anything
8. Parents – yes, even parents can become stressors. Pressure from parents to succeed is a
great stressor.
After you've identified the cause of stress in your life, the next step is to learn techniques that
can help you cope with stress while fighting heart disease. There are many techniques you can
use to manage stress. Some of which you can learn yourself, while other techniques may
require the guidance of a trained therapist. Some common techniques for coping with stress
include:
Eat and drink sensibly. Abusing alcohol and food may seem to reduce stress, but it actually
adds to it.
Assert yourself. You do not have to meet others' expectations or demands. It's OK to say
"no." Remember, being assertive allows you to stand up for your rights and beliefs while
Stop smoking. Aside from the obvious health risks of cigarettes, nicotine acts as a stimulant
substances that help you feel better and maintain a positive attitude.)
Take responsibility. Control what you can and leave behind what you cannot control.
Reduce causes of stress. Many people find life is filled with too many demands and too little
time. For the most part, these demands are ones we have chosen. Effective time-management
skills involve asking for help when appropriate, setting priorities, pacing yourself, and taking
Examine your values and live by them. The more your actions reflect your beliefs, the better
Set realistic goals and expectations. It's OK, and healthy, to realize you cannot be 100%
Sell yourself to yourself. When you are feeling overwhelmed, remind yourself of what you
Get enough rest. Even with proper diet and exercise, you can't fight stress effectively without
rest. You need time to recover from exercise and stressful events. The time you spend resting
should be long enough to relax your mind as well as your body. Some people find that taking a
because they help you view stress as a challenge rather than a problem. A positive attitude
keeps you in control when there are inevitable changes in your life. A positive attitude means
telling yourself there are things you can do to improve certain situations and admitting that
sometimes there's nothing you can do. To maintain a positive attitude during a stressful
situation (or to prepare yourself for a potentially stressful situation), keep these tips in mind:
Stay calm. Stop what you're doing. Breathe deeply. Reflect on your choices.
Try to keep the situation in perspective. Think about the possible solutions. Choose one that is
Think about the outcome: Ask yourself, what is the worst possible thing that can happen?
Tell yourself that you can learn something from every situation.
While it is impossible to live your life completely stress-free, it is possible to reduce the
harmful effects of certain stressors on you and your heart. Here are some suggestions:
Avoid hassles and minor irritations if possible. If traffic jams cause you stress, try taking a
Learn how to manage your time effectively, but be realistic and flexible when you plan your
schedule.
Ask for help if you feel that you are unable to deal with stress on your own.
The best way to manage your stress is to learn healthy coping strategies. You can start
practicing these tips right away. Try one or two until you find a few that work for you. Practice
these techniques until they become habits you turn to when you feel stress. You can also use
Write. It may help to write about things that are bothering you. Write for 10 to 15 minutes
a day about stressful events and how they made you feel. Or think about tracking your
stress. This helps you find out what is causing your stress and how much stress you feel.
friends, family, a counselor, or a member of the clergy about your feelings is a healthy way
to relieve stress.
Do something you enjoy. You may feel that you're too busy to do these things. But
making time to do something you enjoy can help you relax. It might also help you get
Volunteer work.
Focus on the present. Meditation and guided imagery are two ways to focus and relax
your mind.
Meditate. When you meditate, you focus your attention on things that are happening right
now. Paying attention to your breathing is one way to focus. Mindfulness-based stress
reduction is one form of meditation that is very helpful with managing stress and learning
Use guided imagery. With guided imagery, you imagine yourself in any setting that helps
you feel calm and relaxed. You can use audiotapes, books, or a teacher to guide you.
Ways to relax your body
Exercise. Regular exercise is one of the best ways to manage stress. Walking is a great
way to get started. Even everyday activities such as housecleaning or yard work
can reduce stress. Stretching can also relieve muscle tension. For more information about
Try techniques to relax. Breathing exercises, muscle relaxation, andyoga can help relieve
stress.
combine exercise and meditation. You may need some training at first to learn them.
Books and videos are also helpful. You can do all of these techniques at home.
Whatp e o p l e m u s t d o i s t o l e a r n m o r e a b o u t i t s n a t u r e , s
o u r c e s a n d alternatives so that people used the energy positively and work in thebest
possible way.
Orlandi ( 2010 ) stated, “Your ability to tolerate stressors depends onthe number
of stressors in your life”. People who can handle stress use their coping mechanism,
which is powerful tool to use, to analyzeevents objectively and observe calmly. Gather
information at
thestateo f e q u i l i b r i u m , u n d e r s t a n d i n g o f w h a t t o p r o d u c e t h e t e n s i o n t h a t h
stressa r e t h r o u g h r e l a t i o n a n d e x e r c i s e w h i c h i r o n i c a l l y a r e e x t r e m
e l y aesthetical acts which involved dynamics of the mind and body. Peoplewho are always
stress survivors stay healthy throughout their lives. They consider stressful situation
Related Studies
Foreign Studies
Early studies reported deleterious effects of a wide variety of stressors on speed and accuracy
in tracking, signal detection, verbal reasoning, sentence formation, and other kinds of verbal
performance (Lazarus et al., 2010; Wilkinson, 2009). More recent research has been guided by
propositions about the adaptive demands of stress that drain energy (Glass & Singer, 2008). In
Cohen's (2008) version of this model, stressors create conditions of information overload
because they force people to pay special attention. This results in cognitive fatigue and saps
energy needed for task performance. Cohen (2008) reviewed several studies that support this
model. They show that after experiencing stressors such as noise, electric shock, bureaucratic
frustration, and task load, people perform less effectively on tasks which call for tolerance for
frustration, clerical accuracy, and the ability to avoid perceptual distractions. They also
becomeless sensitive to others and show "a decrease in helping, a decrease in the recognition
of individual differences, and an increase in aggression". These effects on interpersonal
sensitivity are consistent with results of studies on aggression (Rule & Nesdale, 2009) and
altruism (Aderman, 2008; Cunningham, Steinberg, & Grev, 20010; Isen, Clark, & Schwartz,
2011; Isen & Levin, 2008; Rosenhan, Salovey, & Hargis,2012), which indicate that negative
emotions associated with stress incline people toward more aggressive and less altruistic
behavior. They are also consistent with recent research in work situations where measures of
job satisfaction have been used as surrogates for positive affective experience. Bateman and
Organ (2008), Motowidlo (2009), and Smith, Organ, and Near (2010) reported positive
correlations between job satisfaction and prosocial organizational behaviors such as helping,
volunteering, cooperating, listening, and showing consideration for the needs and feelings of
others.
Workplace Stress
Chart describing the souces of stress in America Numerous studies show that job stress is far
and away the major source of stress for American adults and that it has escalated progressively
over the past few decades. Increased levels of job stress as assessed by the perception of
having little control but lots of demands have been demonstrated to be associated with
increased rates of heart attack, hypertension and other disorders. In New York, Los Angels
and other municipalities, the relationship between job stress and heart attacks is so well
acknowledged, that any police officer who suffers a coronary event on or off the job is
assumed to have a work related injury and is compensated accordingly (including heart attack
Although the Institute is often asked to construct lists of the “most” and “least” stressful
occupations, such rankings have little importance for several reasons. It is not the job but the
person-environment fit that matters. Some individuals thrive in the time urgent pressure
cooker of life in the fast lane, having to perform several duties at the same time and a list of
things to do that would overwhelm most of us — provided they perceive that they are in
control. They would be severely stressed by dull, dead end assembly line work enjoyed by
others who shun responsibility and simply want to perform a task that is well within their
capabilities. The stresses that a policeman or high school teacher working in an inner city
ghetto are subjected to are quite different than those experienced by their counterparts in rural
Iowa. It is necessary to keep this in mind when sweeping statements are made about the
degree of stress in teachers, police personnel, physicians and other occupations. Stress levels
Stress is a highly personalized phenomenon and can vary widely even in identical situations
for different reasons. One survey showed that having to complete paper work was more
stressful for many police officers than the dangers associated with pursuing criminals. The
severity of job stress depends on the magnitude of the demands that are being made and the
individual’s sense of control or decision-making latitude he or she has in dealing with them.
Scientific studies based on this model confirm that workers who perceive they are subjected to
high demands but have little control are at increased risk for cardiovascular disease.
It is evident that physical health, general health and social lifeof a student will be affected by
the harmful effects of perceived stress(Allgöweret at., 2001). Results of their research revealed
that there were 33% of students when suffered from the characteristics of depression and
anxiety.Demakis and McAdams 2007)also found that when a high level of stress is reported by
the undergraduate students, there would be a significant decrease in the stability of their
general health state compared with those who have reported the lower levels of stress. In
addition, The American College Health Association (2006) found that the most common
health factor that created the negative impact on the undergraduate students’ general health
was stress.In parallel with Morgan (2007), Walton (2002) and Beck (2005) also revealed that
fear of not achieving is constantly a drain on student’s energy and resources that ultimately
deteriorate their level of performance. With such a high level of perceived stress, students are
individual knows how to cope with it. In addition, Cheng and Cheung (2005) explained that
individuals who face stressful circumstances need to have constructive coping strategy. Often
it is wise to choose strategies that work in a particular context; such as exercise regularly, seek
social support, practice relaxation and so on. Cheng and Cheung further explained that a
person who has experienced a cluster of stressful life event would be able tocope successfully
with life if he/she isable to modify coping strategy to match the demands of the situation. An
effective coping strategy can determine one’s outcomes in facing and handling a stressful
situation and influence the level of general health state (Uchino, 2004). Uchino defined coping
strategy as the ability of a person in changing cognitive and behavioral efforts to manage
psychological stress adaptively. Uchino further explained that coping strategy frequently act as
a mediator in influencing one’s level of stressors. For example, a person who has a higher
level of perceived stress tends to have a lower level of coping strategy. Folkman and Lazarus
(1980) have distinguished coping strategies into two broad types: problem-focused coping and
emotion-focused coping. The goal of both strategies is to control and reduce threats that lead
to perceived stress in a person. Grade anxiety and the fear of not achieving is the constant
drain on student’s energy and resources that ultimately deteriorate their level of psychological
well-being (Beck, 1995; Walton,2002). Thoits (2005) further suggested that the use of
effective coping mechanisms is in fact the determinant factor to alleviate the harmful effects of
coping strategy while facing stress or difficulties in life would affect the person’s general
health.
strategies in which different individuals would apply. Litman and Lunsford (2009) studiedthe
variety of coping strategies people employed and its relations to general health among 450
individuals with a mean age of 20.84 years. The findings of their study showed
that acceptance and planning would increase one’s self-efficacy while positive reinterpretation
leads to greater general health growth. On the other hand, the use of acceptance, emotions
disengagement were shown to weaken an individual. Litman and Lunsford explained that
acceptance could involve identifying factors that were either within or outside of an
individual’s control, hence the significant findings to both positive and negative impacts.
Approaching people for advice was also linked negatively to diminishment. In sum, the study
A similar investigation was carried out among 268 Singaporeans aged 17 to 66 years
(Diong& Bishop, 2009). Their analyses showed that both active coping and coping by seeking
social support were related to better general health while avoidant coping was related to worse
general health. Another study was conducted in Taiwan using
441 16 to 20-year-olds on the relationships between coping methods and psychological well-
being (Wang &Yeh, 2005). Their results showed that problem-focused coping would have the
positive effect of alleviating psychological distress while emotion-focused coping would have
the negative effects of impairing general health. Other than the aforementioned studies
conducted in other nations, a similar research was administered in Malaysia context using the
coping, avoidance coping, positive intrusive thoughts, and problem-focused coping but not
coping and general health was inconsistent with other research findings; however, the effect
size was smaller as compared to positive intrusive thoughts and problem-focused coping
(Arulrajah&Harun).
The inconsistent research findings on the relationship between student’s coping strategy
and general health emphasize the needs for further research, particularly in the Malaysian
context.
positive effects on job satisfaction and organizational commitment while reducing turnover
previously. Under this hypothesis, at moderate levels of stress, individual performance and
productivity are likely to be higher and can also contribute to higher job satisfaction and
organizational commitment. For example, Zivnuska, Kiewitz, and Hochwarter (2002) find that
moderate levels of stress tend to be correlated with higher levels of job satisfaction than either
very high or very low stress levels. The authors explain this effect by noting that moderate
stress is perceived as stimulating and challenging, without being unbearable. Empirically, the
authors demonstrate the nonlinear relationship of stress with turnover intent, value attainment,
and job satisfaction by including a tension-squared term as a predictor variable in their model.
They find that the tension-squared term has a statistically significant relationship with each of
the outcome variables. These findings suggest that turnover intent increases quadratically with
job tension, while value attainment and job satisfaction decrease quadratically with tension.
These findings are supported by the work of Milgram, Orenstein, and Zafrir (1989), which
increased group cooperation, commitment, and morale, all of which can contribute to effective
group performance. As stress levels decline from the “optimal” level, the authors find that
individual endorsement of official goals of the military, military unit morale, and loyalty to the
unit also decline. Taken together, these studies suggest that although
contribute to individual and group intensity and achievement. This type of stress is likely to be
in peacekeeping deployments, where a certain level of stress may help maintain vigilance and
reduce boredom.
defined by Maslach, Schaufeli, and Leiter (2001) to include exhaustion, feelings of cynicism
lack of accomplishment. Burnout is most often measured on the Maslach Burnout Inventory
(MBI). The authors note that individuals with high MBI scores tend to also exhibit higher
levels of job dissatisfaction and lower workplace effectiveness. Work by Lee and Ashforth
(1990) supports the argument that high and consistent exposure to stress can lead to burnout.
They find that psychological strain and burnout have a correlation of 0.94 and that
physiological strain and burnout have a correlation of 0.56. Although this does not imply a
causal relationship, it does support the argument that individual stress levels are strongly
related to burnout.
effects. For example, Cropanzano, Rapp, and Bryne (2003) find that longterm exposure to
exhaustion, which has been shown to degrade organizational commitment and increase
turnover intentions. According to Seymour and Black (2002), chronic stress can also lead to
physical problems, including cardiovascular disease, muscle pain, stomach and intestinal
Long-term stress can also lead to feelings of anger, anxiety, fatigue, depression, and sleep
problems. In the extreme, long-term exposure to high levels of stressors or a single exposure
to a very demanding event can lead to post-traumatic stress disorder, a psychiatric illness that
can interfere with life functioning. PTSD has a variety of symptoms, including nightmares,
flashbacks, difficulty sleeping, and social isolation. Not all individuals who experience
extreme stress will develop PTSD, though. Factors that make individuals more or less
susceptible to PTSD include the type of stressor experienced, genetics, lack of social support,
or the existence of other mental or physical diseases (Green et al., 2000; Kahana, Harel, and
Kahana, 2008; Adler, Vaitkus, and Martin, 2006). Important from the perspective of this
report, combat experience is one of the types of stressors that can bring on PTSD. In fact,
observed in nearly all veteran populations studied, including those who served in World War
II, the Korean War, Persian Gulf conflicts, and UN peacekeeping deployments. Specifically,
for the Vietnam War, a study conducted 15 years after the end of the conflict found that at least
15 percent of veterans were still suffering from PTSD symptoms (Schlenger et al., 2002).
Rates for other conflicts are lower. For example, incidence of PTSD in Gulf War veterans is
estimated to be between 2 and 10 percent (Hoge et al., 2004). In general, the severity of stress
magnitude of stressor experienced. Adler, Vaitkus, and Martin (2006) find that Operation
Desert Storm veterans who had witnessed U.S. casualties exhibited the highest scores for
PTSD symptoms. McCarroll, Ursano, and Fullerton (2003) also look at the connection
between PTSD symptoms and degree of stress exposure. They find that soldiers who handled
human remains reported significantly more severe PTSD symptoms than did those who did
not.
the stress associated with peacekeeping duties can also be severe. For example, Litz et al.
(2007b) study the rates of PTSD and exposure to stress for military personnel who served in a
peacekeeping mission in Somalia. They find a prevalence rate of PTSD for the sample (men
discussed above for Gulf War veterans, despite the fact that the Somali deployment was a
peacekeeping mission. The authors hypothesize that “peacekeeping operations under perilous
sufficiently captured by traditional war zone exposure.... It could be that both war zone
exposure and frustration with peace enforcement are most implicated in PTSD responses
because of the uncontrollable and unpredictable nature of peacekeeping” ( see also Foa,
Zinbarg, and Rothbaum, 2002; Weisaeth, 2000). Although the conflicts in Iraq and
Afghanistan are still under way, research on the prevalence of mental health disorders among
returning veterans has already begun. A study by Hoge et al. (2004) finds that soldiers
deployed to Afghanistan and Iraq had significantly higher levels of mental disorders, including
anxiety, depression, and PTSD, than did those who were not deployed. Furthermore, those
deployed to Iraq demonstrated a much higher incidence of mental disorders than did
those who had only been to Afghanistan. The authors used a survey to
identify personnel who met the criteria for PTSD set out in the
ress for a long time and who cope poorly with this stress may becomeirritable, socially
withdrawn, and emotionally unstable. They may alsohave difficulty concentrating and solving
problems. Some people underintense and prolonged stress may start to suffer from extreme
d e m a n d i n g a c t i v i t y o f l i f e . I t i s t r u e t h a t s t r e s s i s a n o r m a l constant part of
our life because it involves changes, challenges andemotions. Try to imagine life without
anyc h a l l e n g e s a n y t h i n g t o a f f e c t y o u r e m o t i o n s a n d a n y t h i n g n e w
weo f t e n b e a r a b o u t s t r e s s i n a n e g a t i v e l i g h t t h a t p e o p l e m a y o n l
y associate’s bad experiences with stress. How you perceived and handledstressors will
determine whether the stress is good or bad for you. Asituation that seems extremely stressful
Flores (2000) said that a person who is stressed typically lessanxious thoughts
remembering.Stressc a n a l s o c h a n g e o u t w a r d b e h a v i o r s . Te e t h c l e n c h i n g , h
stress.P e o p l e a l s o f e e l p h y s i c a l l y d i f f e r e n t w h e n t h e y a
2.3 Synthesis
These reviewed literature and studies are considered because it talks about stress
management and different coping mechanisms where in it is the very important part of this
research.
This literature and studies has enabled the researchers to have a better understanding of
ideas of different well known writers which resulted to broadening the researchers own
The foreign and local studies shows the effects of stress and the effects of using different
In this research, both the children ( including the students ) and adults ( including most the
parents and teachers ) from these. It may give them awareness on how to deal with stress.
In this matter, coping mechanisms are ways to which external or internal stress is
conscious or unconscious choice and that enhances control over behavior or gives
situations.
Chapter III
METHODOLOGY
This chapter aims to enumerate the steps undertaken by the researcher in choosing the method
suitable for the study, thee research instrument and how was it administered in the population
Research Method
The researcher used descriptive method of research. Qualititative research refers to the
relationships.
The respondents of the study were fifty municipal employees from the Local Government of
Ternate, Cavite. The target population was selected through random sampling which included
The research instrument used by the researcher in the study was survey method. One of the
best ways to achieve unbiased results in a study using survey method is to collect
samples/respondents is through random sampling. This is the sampling method used by the
researcher in conducting the study and choosing the target population. Random
sampling includes choosing subjects from a population through unpredictable means. In its
simplest form, subjects all have an equal chance of being selected out of the population being
researched. The content of the questionnaire are divided into two sections:
Part I Consist of the Profile of the respondents which is the background information of the
respondents consisting of Age, Gender, Position , Civil Status, and Number of years in service
to the government.
1. Physical
2. Emotional
3. Intellectual
4. Social
5. Moral/ Spiritual
T he questions were interpreted using the five point Likert scale as follows:
SCALE DESCRIPTION
5 Always
4 Often
3 Sometimes
2 Seldom
1 Never
The questions in this section were directed to obtain the Kind of Coping Mechanisms
SCALE DESCRIPTION
1 Always
2 Often
3 Sometimes
4 Seldom
5 Never
The researcher first drafted a survey form which included questions relating to her study. After
approval of the survey form, a final draft was made which was disseminated to the target
population. The survey asked a specific, narrow question and collected a sample of numerical
data from participants to answer the question. The researcher analysed the data with the help
of statistics.
The researcher applied the frequency distribution as statistical analysis in the treatment of the
magnitude of the observations. When the data are grouped into classes of appropriate size
presenting the data in a summarized form. Frequency distribution is also known as Frequency
table. After tabulating the frequency of the respondents’ answer to the specific questions, the
% = ( Σfx/n ) 100
n = sample size
100 = constant
Wm = Σfx/n
Wm = weighted mean
f = frequency
X =weight
n = sample size
CHAPTER V
Summary
The study was conducted to identify the symptoms of stress factors being experienced by the
target population who are municipal employees in the Local Government of Ternate who are
in permanent position and the effects of the said stress factors in their work performance. The
respondents were selected through random sampling. Data were collected using the
descriptive approach through survey forms disseminated to the respondents. They were asked
The first part collected demographic information of the respondents, the second part identified
the stress symptoms they experience and the third part identified the effects of the said stress
factors.
After the data were gathered and tabulated the researcher used frequency, percentage and
weighted mean to identify the relationship of the stress factors and work performance of the
employees as statistical analysis. After treatment of data, the researcher used the results to
reject the hypothesis established by the study and generated a conclusion and provide
recommendations.
Findings showed that there had been different stress factors and effects identified by the
A. Physical
B. Emotional
C. Intellectual
1. make correct decisions.
2. give attention to details.
3. analyze every situation.
4. am quick to make solutions.
5. utilize to the maximum every material.
6. create new things.
7. easy to cope up with the rapid changes.
8. very imaginative.
9. mentally alert.
10. like to try out new things.
D. Social
1. help voluntarily.
2. enjoy the company of others.
3. can adjust to any group as a member.
4. spend time for my relatives.
5. spend time for my friends.
6. spend my time for my family.
7. tend to be friendly.
8. see others opinion as different from mine.
9.give equal chance for everybody to be heard.
10. enjoy my social activities.
E. Moral/ Spiritual
Conclusion
Based on the findings of the study, it can therefore be concluded that stress poses a negative
effect on the work performance of the employee. Hence, the hypothesis is rejected for there is
a significant difference between the performance of the employee that is experiencing stress
factors from the work performance of those who does not experience stress factors. Moreover,
it is not only their work performance that is affected but also their physical, mental social,
Recommendation
Finding out that stress affects a worker on how he/she can properly perform his/ her service,
the study recommends the following activities be undertaken by the concerned agency:
Provide Stress management Activities for the employees as stress affects how they
deliver their basic services.
Ensure that the employees concerns are properly addressed to lessen their stress
level.