Effects of Life and Job Stress on Information Search Behaviors of Organizational Members.

Abstract : The relationship of stressful life events in and out of work to role relevant information search was examined. It was suggested that stressful life events lead a person to question the appropriateness of typical modes of role enactment resulting in increased role relevant information search. Forty four individuals employed in a wide variety of organizations completed questionnaires measuring two types of stressful events (life and work) and role related information search in two settings (on and off the job). Results showed that stressful events significantly predicted information search activities. However, work related stressful events predicted information search conducted on the job while life stress predicted off-the-job search. (Author)