A Qualitative Study on the Causes of Stress and Management Mechanisms among Non Teaching Staff in Autonomous Colleges

Stress at workplace has become an increasing phenomenon due to external factors such as technological advances and changes in the working environment, which might lead to becoming redundant so on. Stress can be considered as an inevitable condition at least at one point in time or another; however it can also be minimized to the extent that the productivity and health of the employee is maintained which could lead to a productive institution. Stress is also bound to occur in autonomous colleges where work load is high due to academic autonomy and employees have different cultural background. Purpose this study is to have a clear understanding of the causes of stress among nonteaching staff in autonomous colleges in Ernakulam district. And to make necessary recommendation based the on the findings. The causes of stress at the work place range from personal problems to work overload, physical working environment, work situation and conflict among colleagues and management. Many employees struggle with stress, in worst cases leading to uncertainties and severe impairments on health and performance. This study qualitatively finds the causes of stress and made recommendations such as reducing work load by appointing additional employees, automation of work, give recreation facilities and refreshment activities, holidays, and casual leave etc.