MBM Thesis Analyses the Impacts of Job Stress on Immigrant Workers in the Netherlands

19.08.2023

Research by Joshua Fidelis Focused on African and Non-African Immigrants

Having observed the increasing diversity in the Dutch workforce and the challenges faced by immigrant workers, Wittenborg student Joshua Fidelis, who recently completed an MBM degree in Human Resource Management, decided to research this topic for his master’s thesis.

Fidelis, who is originally from Nigeria, noticed a significant gap in the existing literature regarding the impacts of job stress on African and non-African immigrant workers in the Netherlands. “I felt that investigating this topic was not only relevant but also crucial for addressing the challenges faced by this group of employees. This topic is highly relevant because, by understanding the experiences of immigrant workers, we can contribute to the improvement of their well-being, work productivity and job performance.”

He adds that while previous literature focused on either African immigrants or non-African immigrants in the Netherlands, his research addressed both groups. The purpose was to understand the impacts of job stress on these workers regardless of their specific backgrounds, ethnicity or race.

The researcher chose a quantitative method for his study, having created an online survey that obtained 108 responses from participants who were active in five different industries in the Netherlands. “This approach allowed me to collect numerical data and quantify the experiences of both African and non-African immigrant workers regarding job stress. The participants were selected through a purposive sampling technique to ensure representation from different nationalities, job roles and industries. The survey questions were designed to assess their perceptions of job stress, workplace conditions, well-being and the potential role of wellness initiatives,” Fidelis explains.

According to him, one of the main challenges of the research was gaining access to the respondents and having them participate in the survey. To address this, the student created a questionnaire on Google Forms and electronically sent it to the participants, assuring them of the confidentiality of their responses.

Fidelis’ study concludes that both African and non-African immigrant workers in the Netherlands experience job stress arising from multiple factors. These include poor working conditions, job insecurity, discrimination and marginalisation, as well as subpar housing and documentation concerns, among others. “It was also discovered that job stress affects the productivity of employees adversely. To reduce the impacts of stress on immigrant workers, it is essential to implement targeted wellness initiatives, provide support systems and foster inclusive and safe work environments,” the researcher underscores.

Regarding his professional goals, Fidelis says that he is currently seeking opportunities in functional roles in the areas of Human Resources, Corporate Recruiter/Talent Management and Employer Branding. “I would like to join a multinational organisation or a startup company, where I plan to apply the knowledge and insights gained from my research to advocate for better working conditions and the improved well-being of all immigrant workers.”

The graduate highlights that, while pursuing his master’s degree, he had the opportunity to work as an Employer Branding intern at a software company located in Arnhem. “The internship provided me with valuable, practical experience and complemented my research efforts. While I have thoroughly enjoyed my time in the Netherlands, my long-term plans are not yet finalised, and I am open to opportunities both in the Netherlands and elsewhere, depending on career prospects and personal considerations.”