Do Females and Males Experience Occupational Stress Differently? Insights from a Meta-Analysis

Occupational stress has been extensively studied due to its key role in shaping the well-being, safety, and productivity of workers. However, existing studies offered conflicting evidence regarding the association between gender and occupational stress. This research systematically reviewed 18 studies with 20 records from the past decade on gender differences in occupational stress, utilizing meta-analysis techniques. Based on the literature review, occupational stress was categorized into physical, psychological, safety, and work stress. Moderators affecting the relationship between gender and occupational stress were analysed. The findings suggested that female workers exhibited greater work stress (Cohen’s d = –0.119, p < 0.001) and less safety stress (Cohen’s d = 0.106, p = 0.010) than males. Region was a key moderator significantly affecting the relationship between gender and occupational stress ( p < 0.05). These findings emphasized the distinct stress challenges faced by female and male workers, highlighting the need for tailored support to decrease occupational stress for workers of both genders, thus enhancing workers’ performance, safety, and well-being.