This study investigated the relationship between the weighted level of stress experienced by an individual and changes in individual work performance. The methodology employed in the conduct of the research is described and explained in this chapter. Character of the Research The research design was both predictive and methodological in character. It was methodological in character, in that a method was developed, by which the relationship between weighted stress levels experienced by an individual may be quantitatively related to changes in the work output of that individual. A methodological study is one in which the approach is characterized by newness, and by potential advantages over existing methods (Krathwohl, 1988). The research design was predictive in character, in that an equation was derived, through the application of which, organizational management may predict changes in work output levels by individuals, on the basis of the weighted levels of stress experienced by those individuals. Predictive studies are those which attempt to improve the ability to forecast future events (Krathwohl, 1988),Data Requirements
The data requirements for this study included the measurement of stressors for members of the research sample at two time points separated by a 60 day period, and the conversion of the measured stressors into weighted stress levels for each of the two time points. The data requirements also included recording of production unit output level
3 
)
= 1137
= 5 (250 words per page)
