The influence of occupational and non-occupational factors on chronic fatigue in women.

Abstract

The aim of the present study was to assess the significance of different types of loads to which working women are subjected in relation to reported chronic fatigue. The investigation involved 255 women workers from two different occupational groups. The first group was employed at knitting and the second at assembly lines. Their level of chronic fatigue was assessed. We also analysed the influence of 30 variables on fatigue level. These variables concerned: a) physical and psychological workload, b) organizational (social) climate of work, and c) demographic and family factors. It was found that the most important factor influencing chronic fatigue was "experiencing emotional tension" resulting from family problems. Other factors, having substantial significance for the development of increased fatigue level were also associated with emotional tension and resulted from the social climate in the workplace.