Stress & Stress Management Among Residential Care Staff

Abstract

Evidence is mounting to suggest that stress not only influences an individual's well‐being, but can also have an impact on the quality of work they perform. This paper starts with a consideration of some important issues relating to stress in staff who work with people who have learning disabilities, particularly those who work in community group homes. Current research indicates a number of common themes. A model is presented that attempts to summarise some of these. However, it is also clear that there is considerable variability between organisations. This variability must be assessed when considering the needs of individuals and groups of staff. Some groups of staff seem to Report higher levels of stress and can benefit from stress management interventions. For stress management to be effective, assessments that take into account individual and organisational issues are necessary. An example of a successful intervention package is provided. This is based on the assessment of staff teams and implemented within a problem‐solving framework.

Citation

Rose, J. (1997), "Stress & Stress Management Among Residential Care Staff", Tizard Learning Disability Review, Vol. 2 No. 1, pp. 8-15. https://doi.org/10.1108/13595474199700002