An examination of competing versions of the person-environment fit approach to stress

This study examined two versions of the person-environment (P-E) fit approach to stress, one representing the fit between environmental supplies and employee values [S-V fit], and another the fit between environmental demands and employee abilities (D-A fit). Hypotheses based on three competing models derived from the P-E fit literature were tested with a procedure that overcomes problems with the measurement and analysis of fit. Results indicated that the relationships of S-V and D-A fit with strain combined aspects of the models with other relationships suggested by P-E fit theory and the organizational stress literature. Also, S-V fit was linked primarily to dissatisfaction and D-A fit to tension, but both versions were related to both forms of strain.