Unraveling the fuzzy predictors of stress at work

Abstract

Purpose This study aims to identify and rank the significant determinants of stress among tourism and hospitality employees. Design/methodology/approach A mixed-method approach is used to identify and rank workplace stressors. Particularly, the synthesis of relative literature and interview with the panel of experts resulted in the preliminary identification of workplace stressors. Underpinned by fuzzy theory, in addition, the fuzzy analytical hierarchy process is used to rank identified criteria and relative sub-criteria. Findings Results of three-wave investigation lead to an index comprising key components and weighted ranking of workplace stressors in the tourism and hospitality industry with job characteristics as the most important criteria and mental demand as the most salient sub-criteria influencing stress at work. Research limitations/implications The pattern of findings enhances the current knowledge regarding significant workplace stressors in the tourism and hospitality industry. Practical implications Compositional framework and the weight-based ranking of identified components may act as a source of strategic solution for managers to reduce and manage stress among employees. Originality/value Workplace stressors have attracted considerable research attention, however, no general consensus yet exists among scholars and practitioners conferring to the key composition and relative importance of workplace stressors.