POPULIST POLICIES AND WORK STRESS OF VILLAGE OFFICIALS: AN ANALYSIS FROM THE PERSPECTIVE OF HUMAN RESOURCE MANAGEMENT IN BONTANG, EAST KALIMANTAN

Abstract

The growing implementation of populist policies by local governments has significantly affected the work dynamics of village officials. These short-term, popularity-driven policies are often executed without proper technocratic planning, leading to rising administrative burdens and psychological stress among officials. This study examines the impact of populist policies on the work stress levels of village officials in Bontang City from a human resource management perspective. Using a mixed methods approach with a sequential explanatory design, quantitative data were collected through a 5-point Likert scale survey from 112 respondents selected via stratified random sampling from a population of 156 officials. Data were analyzed using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) with SmartPLS 4.1, while qualitative data from in-depth interviews with 10 informants were examined using thematic analysis. Findings indicate that populist policies have a positive and significant effect on work stress (β = 0.617; p < 0.001), primarily due to heavier administrative demands and heightened public expectations. Interviews further revealed psychological strain, emotional tension, physical exhaustion, and declining motivation, though some officials developed personal coping strategies. These results highlight the need for evidence-based policymaking and participatory engagement to safeguard employee well-being.