The Pitfalls of Stress Bragging: What Journalists Should Know

Stress is often an unwelcome but familiar companion in the world of journalism.

Tight deadlines, breaking news, and the relentless pursuit of stories can take their toll on even the most seasoned reporters. Yet, amidst the hustle and bustle of the newsroom, there's a behavior that some individuals may engage in without realizing its detrimental effects: stress bragging.

Recent research from the University of Georgia's Terry College of Business sheds light on the repercussions of stress bragging in the workplace. Lead author Jessica Rodell, a professor of management, delved into how this seemingly innocuous behavior can undermine perceptions of competence and likability among colleagues.

"This is a behavior we've all seen, and we all might be guilty of at some point,” she said. "When I was wondering about why people do this, I thought maybe we are talking about our stress because we want to prove we're good enough. We found out that often backfires."

The study, conducted with both imaginary scenarios and real-life employee experiences, reveals a stark reality: those who boast about their stress levels are often perceived as less competent and less likable by their peers. In an initial survey involving 360 participants, imaginary co-workers who engaged in stress bragging elicited negative ratings on likability and competence compared to those who simply acknowledged stress or focused on positive aspects of their experiences.

But the consequences extend beyond mere perceptions. Real-life employees who encountered stress bragging in their workplace reported higher levels of personal stress and burnout. This phenomenon highlights the insidious nature of stress bragging, as it perpetuates the normalization of chronic high-stress levels within the work culture.

Rodell emphasizes that it's not the act of being stressed itself that poses a problem. Rather, it's the act of flaunting stress as a badge of honor that triggers adverse reactions from colleagues. This behavior creates a ripple effect, leading to increased stress levels and burnout among co-workers.

So, what does this mean for journalists navigating the high-stress environment of the newsroom?

It's essential to exercise caution when discussing workload or stress levels with colleagues. While it's natural to seek support and understanding during challenging times, turning stress into a boastful narrative can backfire, tarnishing perceptions of competence and likability.

For journalists in leadership roles, recognizing and addressing stress bragging behavior is crucial. By fostering a culture that encourages open communication and support without glorifying stress, managers can mitigate its negative impact on the workplace environment.