Stress in international work: Stressors and coping strategies of RNGO international directors. Issue 5 (20th October 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Gilstrap, Cristina M.; Schall, Sara; Gilstrap, Curt A.
• Is Part Of: Communication quarterly. Volume 67:Issue 5(2019)
• Page Start: 506
• Page End: 525
• Publication Date: 2019-10-20
• Subjects: Coping -- International Directors -- RNGO -- NGO -- Religious Organization -- Workplace Stress; Communication -- Periodicals; 302.205
• DOI: 10.1080/01463373.2019.1668441
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0146-3373

Abstract

Abstract : This study examines how international directors in religiously-affiliated nongovernmental organizations (RNGOs) cope with workplace stress. Interviews were conducted with directors from eight RNGOs who oversee programs in seven international regions. Findings reveal they experience three major stressors: difficulties communicating with others abroad, lack of funds, and dealing with constant travel. Overall, directors encounter these unique stressors due to the international demands of RNGO work, including international travel, fundraising for international programs, and intercultural communication. Moreover, they cope with stressors by striving for physical/mental health, pursuing/providing education, putting family first, seeking support, facilitating stakeholder communication, and planning ahead. Directors rely on problem-centered and emotion-centered coping, but they also describe the beneficial outcomes of avoidance-centered coping. Since only a few directors use prayer as a coping strategy, RNGOs must recognize that employees rely on secular and spiritual coping when developing organizational practices and programs related to stress management.