Exploring Occupational Stress Determinants and Employee Job Performance in Selected Universities in North Central Nigeria

Abstract

Occupational stress is a widespread problem that affects individuals across diverse industries, raising
increasing concerns about its impact on the performance of employees. This study looked at the relationship
between employee work performance and occupational stress variables in a few north central Nigerian
universities. 1,471 academic staff members from three carefully chosen universities in north central Nigeria
make up the study's population. Using the Taro Yamane approach, the study's sample size was calculated
to be 314. A questionnaire instrument was used to administer surveys and gather responses as part of the
study's descriptive research approach. Multiple linear regression analysis was performed on the gathered
data. The results showed that there is a positive (.094) and significant (0.000 p-value < 0.05) relationship
between work load balancing and employee job performance. Additionally, it was discovered that job
ambiguity has a considerable and positive (.699) effect (0.000 p-value < 0.05) with employee job
performance. The study concluded that occupational stress determinants can lead to a more conducive
work environment, increased job satisfaction, and ultimately improved performance outcomes among
academic staff members. The study recommended that universities should develop strategies to manage
workloads effectively, ensuring that tasks are distributed equitably among academic staff members. It was
also recommended that efforts should be made to clarify role expectations and responsibilities for academic
staff members to reduce role ambiguity.