Challenge, Hindrance, or Threat? A Systematic Review of Appraisal-Based Approaches in Work Stressor

Although the challenge-hindrance stressor model (CHSM) proposes that work stressors can be clearly divided into challenge and hindrance stressors, there has been mixed support for the model and some researchers have called for moving away from the current CHSM to an appraisal-based approach. Thus, we conducted a comprehensive literature review to answer “what do we know and where do we go” of work stressor appraisal research. The results from 61 empirical studies (N = 19,713) showed that (1) work stressors can be appraised as challenges, threats, or hindrances; (2) challenge appraisals of work stressors generally have positive effects on employee work attitudes, well-being, job performance, behavior and health-related outcomes, whereas hindrance, threat, and harm appraisals have negative effects on these outcomes; and (3) appraisals can both mediate and moderate the relationships between stressors and work outcomes. Building on the extant knowledge, we provide detailed suggestions for future research.