Timing in methods for studying psychosocial factors at work

In the present chapter we focus on time lags in panel studies investigating psychosocial factors and stressor-strain relationships. First, a framework of theoretical reasons for choosing specific time lags is provided, which is based on the work by Frese and Zapf (Methodological issues in the study of work stress: objective vs. subjective measurement of work stress and the question of longitudinal studies. In: Cooper CL, Payne R (eds) Causes, coping and consequences of stress at work. Wiley, Chichester, pp 375–411, 1988). Although this theoretical framework provides a clear rationale for time intervals, researchers are frequently mistaken using it to derive appropriate time lags. Second, an…