The Role of Values in Reducing Workplace Stress and Increasing Quality of Life

Abstract: Studies of stress and burnout are becoming increasingly relevant because of their demonstrated relationship to lost productivity and turnover in the workplace. Psychological variables are especially relevant within work settings where resources are limited and time demands are high. For this reason, it is important to develop assessment procedures for the identification of process measures related to these outcomes. The current studies examine the relationship between values-consistent living (as measured by the Personal Values Questionnaire) and various psychological outcomes, including stress, burnout, depression, anxiety and general health, within different professional settings. The first study examines the role of values-consistent living as it relates to stress and burnout within substance abuse counselors. Pearson Correlations suggest that greater values-consistent living is correlated with lower levels of burnout and higher levels of accomplishment and mental health functioning (p<.05). The second study examines the role of values-consistent living in respect to psychological outcomes within the staff of the Washoe County School District (p<.05). Results again suggest that greater values-consistent living is negatively related to depression, anxiety, stress and burnout, and positively related to overall health. Future research should investigate the outcomes of treatment interventions implemented to target these processes.