Stress factors among project workers in developing countries due to COVID19

Abstract:  Work related stress in developing countries is one of the research areas that lacks attention of researchers. The aim of this exploratory study is to examine the stressors (stress factors) among project workers in developing countries due to COVID19, and how they cope up with it This study was based on a qualitative research design, critical incident approach was employed. For the data collection, an individual semistructured in-depth interviews were conducted with participants who resides and works in Egypt as one of the developing countries. The study examined the stressors among project workers. The study also examined coping strategies project workers adopt in coping up with stress resulted of project work. The examined stressors showed that some stressors are related to organizations as work overload and high job demands. And some related to the personal perception and interactions of individuals to the circumstances as deterioration of mental wellbeing and physical inactivity. The study results show the necessity for further research in the area of stress management in developing countries. The low level of awareness on the organizational and individual levels, is a serious matter needs further investigation and examination. The lack of research exploring this area of work-related stress in developing countries results in lack of awareness raised about it, while it is affecting the lives millions of people worldwide