ABSTRACT
Work stress is often seen as the consequence of too much work. But there are other factors that influence work stress, for example, physical loading, environmental factors, styling of the function and the social relationships. Motivation and pleasure in one's work lead to better results for the enterprise, society and individuals. The possible causes of stress are obtained with R. Karasek’s model. The model comprises two aspects: decision latitude and task requirements. In 1990, social support was added. The task requirements are concerned with, among other things, the heaviness of the work, the amount of work, the physical loading involved with the work, the work pace, the necessary skills and concentration. The decision latitude is the possibility the employee has to take independent decisions when carrying out the task package. The social support of colleagues and managers often has a positive effect on an employee under stress.
