Occupational stress is a frequent theme at present. Occupational stress in Brazilian judges in charge of labor -related cases, quality of life, work-related stressors and coping strategies were investigated. Seventy-five judges answered five instruments sent to them through the class association. They rated the perceived occupational stress level as 8 on a rating scale of 0 to 10. It was found that 71% of them and that more women had stress symptoms. Quality of life was deficient in social, professional, affective and health related areas. The most stressful aspects of work were backlog of cases and interference with family life. The most common coping strategy reported was to talk with spouse. Results are discussed in terms of possible adverse effects on the individuals in this occupational class and also on the judging process.
Occupational stress; judges; quality of life
