A qualitative analysis of workload, occupational stress, and job performance : Coping strategies among bank employees
*Rashi AcharyaCorresponding authorprincessrashi83@gmail.comDepartment of ManagementSri Sai UniversityPalampur, Himachal Pradesh, 176061, IndiaView full profile → , Hem Rajhemrajssu@gmail.comDepartment of ManagementSri Sai UniversityPalampur, Himachal Pradesh, 176061, IndiaView full profile →
* Corresponding author · click or hover a name for details
- Received:
- 01 Apr 2026
- Published Online:
- 06 Aug 2026
- Article type:
- Research Article
- Language:
- EN
- Article no.:
- JSMS-1661
- Pages:
- 855–864
Abstract
This qualitative study analyses the relationship between workload, occupational stress, and job performance among bank employees, with a special focus on the coping methods individuals choose in response to workplace stresses. Thematic analysis using the framework of Braun and Clarke [8] was used to analyze open-ended responses from 200 participants who represented different private sector banks. Three key themes emerged after analysis were sources of workload, perceived effects on performance and coping mechanisms. The main causes of job stress, which frequently results in pressure, exhaustion, and poor attention, were found to be too ambitious goals, multitasking, and staff shortages. The majority of workers stated that an ongoing burden had a negative effect on their productivity, efficiency and general job satisfaction. However, adaptive coping strategies—such as yoga, meditation, exercise, social support, and skill development—helped to reduce these impacts and sustain productivity. The study stresses the human dimension of banking operations and the need of management-level interventions such as reasonable target-setting, staff support systems, and wellness programs in ensuring employee well-being and long-term success. The study contributes by emphasizing the human dimension of innovation and sustainability in the banking sector within an evolving AI-driven global context.
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References
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