Comparative Analysis of the Influence of Stress-Related Variables on Adaptation to a New Work Setting
The incremental effects of stress-related variables on adaptation to a new work setting were compared after 4 and 8 mo. Adaptation to the new work setting was assessed by job satisfaction and emotional exhaustion. Baseline predictor variables were shift, mode of entry (individual or group), job variety, and level of skills used by the organization. Stress-related predictor variables were role conflict, role ambiguity, and perceived symptoms of stress. Subjects were 80 employees at a new manufacturing facility. Comparative analysis indicated that role conflict was a significant factor in the prediction of job satisfaction and emotional exhaustion; symptoms of stress influenced emotional exhaustion. Role ambiguity was a poor predictor of job satisfaction and emotional exhaustion.