Differences in stress levels between managers and direct care staff in group homes

A survey examined the differences between managers and direct carers working in community homes for people with intellectual disabilities in terms of the nature and causes of stress. Fifty-seven managers and 49 direct carers provided data relating to perceived levels of pressure and support from a variety of sources. The questionnaire administered consisted of the Powell questionnaire of sources of stress and support ratings, a stress measure, and information on the background characteristics of participants. Analysis of the data revealed that managers of group homes were reporting higher levels of anxiety and pressure than direct carers. This was associated with managers reporting higher ratings for sources of stress. The implications of these findings are discussed.