Why Women Cry at Work

An exploratory study investigating the reasons why women cry at work has been presented at the British Psychological Society's 2008 Division of Occupational Psychology Conference. The research, undertaken by Yasmin Yaghmour and Dr. Gail Kinman of the University of Bedfordshire, found that the reasons for women crying at work include:

• Feeling out of control

• Feeling vulnerable due to a build up of stress

• Being overwhelmed by feelings of disappointment, frustration and anger

The study also suggests that women make great effort to avoid crying at work, especially when in public facing roles.

Women reported feeling ashamed when they did cry in the workplace, perceiving that it reinforces negative stereotypes and makes them appear weak or incompetent to colleagues. Ms. Yaghmour goes on to state that "feeling empowered and in control in the workplace seems vital for women to feel professional and competent".

The research is another interesting finding that relates to the emerging body of work examining the links between work, emotional labour and well-being.

Management competencies to prevent and manage workplace stress

Recent research undertaken by the HSE and CIPD suggests that there are competency based behaviours that managers should develop to prevent and manage stress within their teams and organisations.

Phase 1 of the research identified 19 competencies that, when exhibited by managers, prevent and mediate stress within teams. Initial findings from phase 2 of the study have now refined these initial competencies into four main areas:

• Managing Emotions

• Managing and communicating existing and future work

• Managing difficult situations

• Managing individuals within the team.

This emerging research highlights the importance of the manager’s ability to identify and respond to their team effectively. Positive engagement with the four competency areas both prevents as well as reduces reported stress within teams.

The bottom line

In 2006 -2007 a total of 13.8 million working days were lost due to work-related stress, depression and anxiety (source HSE: http://www.hse.gov.uk/stress/why.htm ) - the cost to business being huge.

Investment in developing competencies in managers that both prevent and mediate stress within the workplace reduces the cost of sickness absence, increases motivation, morale and productivity and reduces staff turnover - all of which impact heavily on the bottom line and thus profitability.



Phase 1 of the research is available from:
www.hse.gov.uk/research/rrhtm/rr553.htm

For further information regarding management development and competencies please email enquiries@optimiset-d.co.uk