Stress contagion in the workplace and neuroscience

Dritjon Gruda

Chapter 69 in Elgar Concise Encyclopedia of Neuroscience and Management, 2026, pp 244-245 from Edward Elgar Publishing

Abstract: Stress contagion is the interpersonal transmission of stress, a specific form of emotional contagion occurring both in-person and via digital communication. This phenomenon can trigger physiological responses, like increased cortisol, in observers, a process intensified by empathy and close relationships. Technology, particularly social media, facilitates its spread, with significant implications for leadership and organizational well-being. While it can prompt prosocial behavior, stress contagion more often leads to negative outcomes like burnout. Research is exploring its neural underpinnings and long-term effects to develop mitigation strategies for its harmful consequences.

Keywords: Stress contagion; Emotional contagion; Empathy; Computer-mediated communication (CMC); Leadership; Well-being (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2026
ISBN: 9781035332885
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