Evaluation of the work environment : approaches and methods

A theoretical framework is presented and an outline is given of the approach we are currently using to study work stress in a variety of field situations. The framework on which our research strategy is based, may be regarded as an attempt to develop a taxonomy of bio-behavioral states. In investigating the relation between work and health it is import-ant to differentiate between states on the basis of their effects on performance efficiency and health risks. Biobehavioral states may not only be clas-sified in terms of the degree of physiological activation, but also in terms of the reactivity pattern. Of particular interest in stress research are patterns that are associated with a disruption of adaptive, homeostatic function, which may have negative effects on perfor-mance-effi-ciency and health. In addition to measures of physiological reactivity, biobe-havi-oral states may be distinguished on the basis of indices of perfor-mance, mood and coping-pattern