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Developing an Occupational Rehabilitation System for Workplace Stress

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  23 February 2012

Christine Randall*
Affiliation:
Griffith University, Australia. [email protected]
Nicholas Buys
Affiliation:
Griffith University, Australia.
Elizabeth Kendall
Affiliation:
Griffith University, Australia.
*
*Address for correspondence: Christine Randall, School of Human Services & Research Centre for Practice Innovation, Griffith University, Meadowbrook QLD 4131, Australia.

Abstract

The costs of occupational stress are rising and employers increasingly need to address occupational stress, prevention and rehabilitation issues. However, there is a relative lack of understanding about implementing strategies within specific organisational contexts. Extant literature indicates a need for integrated prevention and rehabilitation strategies that address specific organisational climates that contribute to stress. The Queensland Police Service (QPS) is one policing organisation facing significant occupational stress issues requiring organisational solutions. This article describes a Participatory Action Research case study, the aim of which is to develop an occupational rehabilitation system within the QPS to address identified stress issues. A combination of background information, interview and focus group data is being used to determine stress issues and provide potential solutions to specifically address the needs of the QPS. The findings of this study emphasise the importance of participant involvement in identifying issues and generating solutions, as well as demonstrating the value of taking a systemic approach. The findings suggest that the use of the Participatory Action Research approach is invaluable in promoting the long-term success of the QPS change process.

Type
Articles
Copyright
Copyright © Cambridge University Press 2006

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