Modelling Constructs of Midlife Career Stress: An ISM Approach

Abstract

Purpose: With growing life expectancies across world, careers are getting prolonged. Midlife as a distinct phase of life brings with itself unique challenges as well as opportunities (Life span theory). Midlife has often been reported as a turbulent and stressful phase by managers. This study explores and crystallises key constituents of midlife stress. The study attempts to place these constructs in a hierarchical model. Research Methodology : In the research study, using literature review, the authors identify a set of constructs of Midlife career stress. Using interpretive structural modelling (ISM) methodology the underlying relations among these constructs are explored. Key Findings : Based on ISM model six levels of hierarchy has been established. The research indicates that there is high interdependence between issues at midlife. Critical life events, personality and organizational culture are the primary sources of stress during midlife. This hierarchy helps the organizations strategize its efforts regarding remedial measures to address the problem. Practical implications : HR managers should adopt a proactive stance. Personality profiling of midlife employees and specific focus on organizational culture may aid in mitigating work related stress. Originality : This paper contributes to HRM literature by presenting a comprehensive view of different stressors at midlife which remain scattered in the extant literature. In doing so, it makes the issues identifiable and actionable for the organizations.