Bragging about stress may lessen social acceptance at work, study suggests

Health in a Heartbeat

When it comes to water cooler talk, stress is a common theme. An even more common one? Your coworker who never seems to catch a break — and is always more stressed than anyone else.

If you’ve felt annoyed — or even privately wondered what’s going on — you’re far from alone. A recent study from the University of Georgia indicates that boasting about one’s stress levels at work can backfire, making a person appear less competent and likable to their colleagues.

The research involved 360 participants who assessed imaginary co-workers’ statements about returning from a conference. Those who bragged about stress were rated lower in likability, competence and willingness to receive help compared with those who simply acknowledged stress or focused on positive aspects of the conference. Additionally, employees with stress-bragging co-workers reported higher personal stress and burnout levels.

Interestingly, discussing stress in passing or being perceived as stressed didn’t provoke negative reactions from colleagues, nor did it increase their own stress levels.

The research suggests that being perceived as stressed isn’t inherently negative; in fact, colleagues may view stressed individuals as more competent.

But boasting about stress creates the impression that chronic stress is normal in the workplace — and that can contribute to a toxic work culture where chronic stress is accepted as the norm.

And, although we can’t tell you why Stuart from accounting is in a frazzle and insists on telling you about it, this study suggests you may not be the only one who’s noticing — and ready to talk about the weather, instead.