Research must look at what interventions work as well as when and why

Abstract

This discussion paper is well-written and up to date. A strong feature is its attention to the biological and behavioural mechanisms that connect exposure to certain job characteristics with illness. First, some remarks are made with respect to the definition and measurement of psychosocial risk factors. It is concluded that we do know which factors in work are major risk factors for stress and its consequences for ill health, and that in order to prevent or reduce occupational stress we must first make a reliable and valid diagnosis, identifying these risk factors and risk groups. Next, some issues are discussed regarding future priorities (interventions and monitoring). It is argued that in order to develop further a "psychosocial intervention science," we will need to address three types of questions.