For many people, constant pings, buzzes and flashes on their phones, computers and other devices are just a normal part of working life—which, thanks to technology, extends to all hours.
An abundance of research analyzes the effects of overload and stress from technology in the workplace, yet there have been no effective solutions, said Jason Thatcher, professor of organizational leadership and information analytics at the Leeds School of Business.
"We work with technologies that enable people to contact us in different times and spaces. It may increase our anxiety and make us feel invaded, among other things," Thatcher said.
"And the reason we're stressed out is that we're not thinking about it the right way. We have to think about clusters of stressors operating together that make you feel burned out."
Thatcher co-authored a recent study, published in June 2024 in MIS Quarterly, that examines how digital stressors compound and escalate. It asserts there is no one approach to counteracting different "technostressors"; rather it requires a comprehensive strategy on the part of employers and, specifically, direct managers.
