New research has discovered a range of behaviours that bosses can use to prevent and reduce stress among their team members.

Although the research has identified 19 key ‘stress management behaviours’ it’s so new that the relative importance of each has yet to be determined.

Key behaviours include: managing workload and resources, having a friendly style, good communication, being accessible, taking responsibility, managing conflict and the ability to seek advice when needed.

The research has been carried out by Emma Donaldson-Feilder of Affinity Health at Work, and colleagues from Goldsmiths, University of London and City University. It was presented at the British Psychological Society’s occupational psychology conference.

The research project involved interviews with nearly 400 employees, managers and focus groups with over 50 HR professionals, where participants were asked for their views on what manager behaviours are important for preventing and reducing stress at work.