James Is a Hard Worker on the Construction Site, but Two

question 184

Essay

James is a hard worker on the construction site, but two colleagues have discouraged him from working too quickly on his part of the project. At first, they would taunt him about 'sucking up' to the project boss and for trying to make everyone else among the construction crew look lazy. But more recently, the two colleagues have acted more threateningly towards James. One day during lunch break, the two cornered James and wouldn't let him pass by until they had uttered a few obscenities at him. A couple of days later, the two colleagues stood near his car in the parking lot. They didn't prevent James from getting into his car and driving away, but the experience was uncomfortable and quite stressful. What type of stressor is James experiencing and what is the most effective stress management strategy in this situation?

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Definitions:

Tactful Tone

A manner of communication that is sensitive and considerate, designed to avoid offense or gain favor.

Friendly Relations

Positive interactions and connections between individuals or groups characterized by warmth, cooperation, and mutual respect.

Bad-news Messages

Communications tasked with delivering unfavorable information with sensitivity and consideration towards the recipient's perspective.

Denial Messages

Refers to communications that inform recipients about what cannot be done or why a request is rejected, often aiming to maintain a positive relationship.