Abstract
The current study investigated the effect of workload variability on performance and stress, as well as the role of social support as a potential intervention. Based on previous research it was predicted that a shift in workload from either high to low or low to high would lower performance and increase stress, while the provision of social support would result in higher performance and lower stress. Results revealed significant decrements in performance following workload shifts, though no increase in stress was perceived. Performance in both workload conditions significantly, but inconsistently, increased following the provision of social support and stress significantly decreased following the shift from high to low workload. Implications and future research steps are discussed further.
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Appendix
Appendix
Example of a Training and Practice Sequence
Note. This figure illustrates the sequence of events experienced by participants including the stress measures, the task training and testing sessions, and the breaks in between sessions.
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Hauck, E.L., Snyder, L.A. & Cox-Fuenzalida, LE. Workload Variability and Social Support: Effects on Stress and Performance. Curr Psychol 27, 112–125 (2008). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12144-008-9026-x
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s12144-008-9026-x