COPSOQ – Copenhagen Psychosocial Questionnaire

The Copenhagen Psychosocial Questionnaire (COPSOQ) is a widely recognised instrument developed to assess psychological stress factors in the workplace and their effects on employee well-being. Based on the principles of occupational science, it provides a framework for understanding how working conditions influence mental health and overall job satisfaction.

COPSOQ measures psychosocial factors in the workplace and helps organisations identify stressors and strains affecting employees. It assumes that the quality of working conditions is directly linked to employees' mental health. By providing actionable insights, it supports organisations in fostering healthier and more productive work environments.

COPSOQ is available in two formats to meet different needs:

• Long version: With 30 scales and 141 items, this version provides an in-depth assessment suitable for research or detailed organisational analysis.
• Screening version: A shorter format with 25 scales and 87 items, ideal for quicker assessments that still deliver valuable insights.

This flexibility makes it ideal for adapting to different research needs and workplace assessments, particularly in the context of employee surveys and workplace health promotion initiatives

Despite these limitations, COPSOQ remains one of the most effective instruments for assessing workplace stress and its impact on employees. Organisations can use its insights to develop targeted measures, improve corporate culture, and enhance employee well-being.

By addressing topics such as workplace ergonomics, mental health at work, and employee motivation, COPSOQ enables companies to take proactive steps towards a healthier and more engaged work environment.

Despite these limitations, COPSOQ remains one of the most effective instruments for assessing workplace stress and its impact on employees. Companies can use its insights to develop targeted interventions, improve workplace culture, and enhance employee well-being, ultimately strengthening team spirit and fostering team building.

By addressing topics such as workplace ergonomics, mental health at work, and employee motivation, COPSOQ enables companies to take proactive steps towards a healthier and more engaged work environment.

• Nübling, M., Stößel, U., Hasselhorn, H.-M., Hofmann, F. (2005). Methoden zur Erfassung psychischer Belastungen. Erprobung eines Messinstrumentes (COPSOQ). Bremerhaven: Wirtschaftsverlag NW.
• Kristensen, Tage & Hannerz, Harald & Hogh, Annie & Borg, Vilhelm. (2006). The Copenhagen Psychosocial Questionnaire – A tool for the assessment and improvement of the psychosocial work environment. Scandinavian journal of work, environment & health.