Stress can be defined as a dependent variable, an independent variable or as an interactive variable. The most workable definition is the latter, ‘the transactional model’. This describes stress as a ‘lack of fit’ between an organism and the environment in which an imbalance occurs at a cognitive level between perceived demand and perceived capability producing an unpleasant, emotional experience and a stress response. Stressors in the domestic environment may be noxious stimuli, social stressors, phenomenological stressors, or developmental stressors; all of which are discussed. In conclusion, the studies reviewed are suggested as failing to consider the large number of variables involved and in addition more work on the relationship between work stress and home life should be und