Occupational stress: consensus or divergence? A challenge for training and development specialists

The main aims of this paper are to: explore current views about the nature and causes of occupational stress as portrayed in the publications of employers and employee associations; and consider the implications of these current views in relation to the work of training and development specialists.

The current study builds on the findings of a similar study which the authors published in this journal in 2000. A library and internet‐based search was conducted to obtain publications and statements about occupational stress issued by trade unions and employers' representatives since 2001.

The analysis of publications and statements from trade unions and employers' representatives revealed an emerging consensus surrounding definitions of occupational stress based upon the UK Health and Safety Executive's definition. However, the analysis of the trade union and employer representatives' publications also revealed ongoing differences in views about the main causes of occupational stress.

The implications of the study are discussed in relation to the role of HRD (human resource development) professionals in devising policies and strategies designed to create healthier workplaces by minimizing work and family conflicts.

The study offers a topical insight into how issues surrounding occupational stress are presented by influential parties and, further, how knowledge of these views can be used by training and development specialists.