ABSTRACT

Objective : The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between job-related stress and coping strategies of Korean occupational therapists, and to suggest strategies for managing such stress. Methods : The survey participants were recruited from the database of the Korea Association of Occupational Therapists, and Quota sampling was used based on the gender ratio and geographic areas. The survey was conducted from October 1 to 31, 2016 through an online survey system. A total of 450 occupational therapists responded, and 406 responses were analyzed, with 44 incomplete responses. Results : Job-related stress such as work demand, lack of reward, and the organizational system were higher than the total average. The main factor of job-related stress was work demand. The strategies for stress management commonly used by occupational therapists were wishful thinking, problem-focused coping, social support, and emotional relaxation in that order. On the other hand, emotional relaxation, which is a passive strategy, was relatively low in use. Statistically significant relationships (r=-.37,-.30, p<.01) were found between active stress management strategies (problem-based and social support) and job related stress. Conclusion : Occupational therapists need to identify the cause of job related stress, and establish individual coping strategies rather than avoiding them. In addition, the work place should promote quality occupational therapy service through various work environment improvement programs supporting job-related stress management.