Clinical psychologists' stress sources and coping strategies

Under stress contingencies, clinical psychologists might have their work quality compromised, what can bring consequences to clients in treatment as well. This paper objectified: to assess stress levels, to point out stress sources in the practical context, and list coping used. Fifteen psychologists participated of this research. The Lipp Stress Symptom Inventory was applied and semi-structured interviews took place. The results indicated that 12 participants didn't present stress. They all mentioned coping. The most quoted stress agent was the "concern with specific clients"; the most cited coping was to take vacation and to practice physical exercises. The research revealed that coping might be related to the fact that many stress agents were noticed during their practice, but these agents haven't unleashed the stress process in this group. It was discussed if the knowledge and the abilities acquired by the clinical psychologists could also contribute to their success facing stress agents.

coping; occupational stress; stress agents; psychologists