Author: Satu Kauppinen
Publication date: 18.10.2023
The seamless integration of technology into our daily routines has resulted in a paradoxical state of structured disorder, fostering the emergence of technostress.
The interface between individuals and evolving technology can either enhance or hinder their ability to perform at their best, as evidenced by research highlighting the detrimental effects of technostress on employee performance.
What is technostress
Technostress is a term used to describe the negative psychological and physiological effects that can result from the use of technology. The most common technologies are particularly digital devices and information and communication technologies. In particular, technostress encompasses the stress, anxiety, and discomfort experienced by individuals. This is due to their interactions with technology in various aspects of life including work and personal activities.
Technostress creators
The phenomenon of technostress extends beyond specific situations and encompasses a wide range of underlying factors. Inefficiencies in ICT utilization within organizations act as key stressors, contributing to individuals' experience of stress.
Technostress creators categories
1. Work-home conflict pertains to situations in which the use of ICT can give rise to conflicts between work obligations and personal responsibilities.
2. Invasion of privacy encompasses scenarios in which ICT utilization may compromise privacy through heightened surveillance.
3. Work overload refers to circumstances in which ICT usage may result in a workload that surpasses an individual's skill set or capacity.
4. Role ambiguity delineates situations in which ICT application may induce a lack of essential information needed to perform a specific role.
5. Job insecurity outlines conditions in which ICT intrusion may cause an individual to perceive a threat regarding potential job loss.
Factors
It's important to note that the specific factors contributing to technostress can vary from person to person. Experiences can vary on individual circumstances and technology usage patterns. However, addressing technostress often involves finding a balance in technology use, setting boundaries, and developing strategies. That’s how you can manage the challenges associated with digital technology effectively.
How to prevent technostress
Technostress prevention necessitates adopting mindful technology usage practices and establishing healthy relationships with digital devices and platforms. This effort requires both individual and organizational involvement. While individuals possess responsibility for their own behaviors, leaders play a crucial role in safeguarding the well-being of their employees and the organization as a whole.
Strategies to prevent technostress
Set boundaries
Work and free time can easily mix. Make sure you take breaks from using technology. Turn off non-essential notifications to reduce interruptions. Take periodic breaks from technology, such as a weekend getaway without screens or a digital detox day.
Learn technology/ Offer training
Organizations have an important role in offering sufficient and high-quality training. Additionally, encouraging and creating a positive image is important. On an individual level, you can improve your tech literacy to reduce frustration when using new software or devices.
Seek Support/Offer support
Organizations are responsible for providing sufficient support in order to cope with work tasks. Do not hesitate to ask for support from work or for example from your friends.
Regularly update and maintain devices
Prevent stress ensuring devices are up to date with the latest software and security patches to minimize technical issues. What’s more, it is good to back up data to prevent data loss regularly.
Take care of security
Be vigilant about online security and privacy. Use strong and unique passwords. Apart from that, you should be cautious about sharing personal information and be aware of phishing scams.
Prioritize Offline Activities
Make time for non-digital activities, such as reading, exercising, work well-being day or spending time with friends.
How to deal with Technostress
We need to remember that everyone's relationship with technology is unique. That’s the reason why it is important to tailor these strategies to everyone's specific needs and circumstances. Regular self-assessment and adjustment of technology habits are key to prevent and fight technostress creators effectively.