SOURCES OF STRESS EXPERIENCED BY CATHOLIC PRIESTS

Using a nationwide sample of 515 diocesan priests we assessed their le vel of stress and 28 organizational and personal factors affecting str ess. The priests scored slightly lower in stress than the average of o ther occupational groups. Younger priests and priests serving as assis tant pastors reported the most, pastors reported the least The organiz ational stressors experienced most frequently were inadequate feedback on ministry tasks, inadequate rewards, and unfairness Yet the stresso rs contributing most to intense stress were overwork, over-responsibil ity for other people, and time pressure. Organizational problems withi n the diocese were stressors only for non-pastors. Priests reported mo re stress if diocesan communications were not open and if the Ordinary was perceived as not taking an interest in them.