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University of Derby
School of Computing & Mathematics
A project completed as part of the requirements for the
BSc of Science (Hons) In Information Technology
2013-6CC995: Independent Studies
100319588
entitled
What Lies Beneath TechnoStress
By
Mohammed Al Yousif
Under the supervision of
Richard J Self
In the years 2013 / 2014
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Abstract
This study aims to identify what lies beneath TechnoStress within the work
environment through diagnosing the causes and the reasons of the increasing stress in
order to find solutions and actions to reduce stress levels in the workplace. An
evaluation of TechnoStress through older studies has been made to identify the
consequences and what is hidden when individuals suffer from technology fear and
stress in the workplace. The modern technological revolution created a quantum leap
into the concept of technologies, especially with smartphones that contain massive
computing abilities. Those modern technologies made the technology stress
congestion very severe, leading to serious consequences physically and
psychologically. These lead to grave health issues, and as a result, it affects
corporations and organizations by leading to less productivity and poor outcomes.
Even though the new generation is familiarized with technology, the stress levels are
going up as a result of several factors, such as overload, invention, and complexity. In
order to measure the stress levels currently, a survey that included 114 participants
has been made. The measurement instrument that was used in this survey is called
General Attitudes Toward Computers Scale (GATCS), which is designed by Rosen
and Weil (1995). Most participants are involved in the education, business, and IT
fields. Results showed that 59% of participants suffer from a degree of TechnoPhobia
when interacting with technology, which is a high number compared with previous
studies. The study contained a set of 20 questions based on the main points of the
study. Findings from those questions showed that modern technology is making the
stress levels worse. Unreliable devices, complicated features that do more than what
users need, and constant invention are what make users anxious as they emerge within
the new technology revolution. The findings have been analyzed and categorized
according to gender, age, and region. The findings have varied between participants
from each category. A discussion of the findings and linking the present study’s
findings with the previous findings from older studies is undertaken. When a
comparison is made between Rosen and Weil’s (1995) original study, Self and
Aquilina’s study (2013), and the present study, the results showed a sustained increase
of stress levels over each study. Recommendations have been made according to the
study findings. It is important for managers in organizations and corporations to take
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TechnoStress as a serious hindrance; therefore, strategies need to be designed
sufficiently. Appropriate training, standardization, workload, and reliable hardware
and software are all very important aspects that need strategies to make users able to
cope with the constant changes in technology. The personal lives of users are also
affected because of technology; therefore, users must be aware of the consequences
and control their own usage of technology. Users need to control their usage of
computers and smartphones by having a limit per day. They also need to read more
and get updated with the latest technology trends. It is also recommended that users
get involved in useful activates, such as reading, sports, and music. TechnoStress is a
relatively new study area; therefore, more studies and investigations need to dig more
deeply into the phenomenon to discover more about it and to find permanent solutions
to mitigating or eliminating it.
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Acknowledgements
I would love to thank a few people for their support and help through both the rough
and the peaceful times. First, I am thankful to god for his great graces and blessings
and for planting the seed of love to teach me and determination and perseverance.
Second, I want to give huge thanks to my supervisor, Mr Richard Self, who has been
always there for me, for providing the direction to carry out my research efficiently.
Mr Richard Self is truly my inspiration for this study. Whenever I have been lost, he
has been there providing me with useful information and advice. Many of his sayings
and quotes gave me hints that made me create and analyse. Not only that, but also he
was there to help me even when I needed consultation outside of my scheduled hours.
He never turns students down who need help and always encourages students to make
them use their full potentials and abilities. Without Mr Richard’s guidance, I could
not have designed and processed this study at this level of knowledge and awareness.
Third, I give great thanks for my family, especially my mother, who have been there
for me always advising and helping me when I needed it. When I’m in a difficult
situation they never gave up on me the always give me a hand when I needed them.
They have always supported me emotionally and educationally and set a good
example that I followed as a main path in my life in general and in my education
particularly.
Finally, I give thanks to the University of Derby, which was the most valuable
experience among my educational journey. The university has always provided a
healthy studying environment for me with a great library, labs and faculty members.
The instructors have always been very helpful and exposed me to new and vital
concepts within information technology and business to prepare me to face real-life
career challenges.
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Table of Contents
Abstract .......................................................................................................................... 2
Acknowledgements ........................................................................................................ 4
Table of Contents ........................................................................................................... 5
Table of Figures ............................................................................................................. 9
1. Introduction .......................................................................................................... 11
1.1. Project Rationale ........................................................................................... 11
1.2. Project Aim and Objectives........................................................................... 12
2. Literature Review................................................................................................. 13
2.1. Introduction ................................................................................................... 13
2.2. Smartphones and TechnoStress ..................................................................... 14
2.3. What Is Stress ................................................................................................ 15
2.3.1. Types of common stress......................................................................... 15
2.4. What Is TechnoStress? .................................................................................. 16
2.4.1. TechnoStress Definitions ....................................................................... 17
2.5. TechnoStress and TechnoPhobia .................................................................. 17
2.5.1. What Is a Phobia? .................................................................................. 17
2.5.2. What Is TechnoPhobia? ......................................................................... 18
2.5.3. Difference Between TechnoStress and TechnoPhobia .......................... 18
2.6. Evaluation of TechnoStress ........................................................................... 18
2.7. Symptoms of TechnoStress ........................................................................... 20
2.7.1. Psychological aspects of stress .............................................................. 20
2.7.2. Physiological aspects of stress ............................................................... 21
2.8. Consequences of TechnoStress ..................................................................... 23
2.9. Causes of TechnoStress ................................................................................. 24
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2.10. TechnoStress Conditions ........................................................................... 26
2.10.1. Techno Overload ................................................................................ 27
2.10.2. Emails Overload ................................................................................. 30
2.11. Conclusions ............................................................................................... 32
2.11.1. Key Issues .......................................................................................... 33
2.11.2. Refined Research Questions............................................................... 34
3. Research Methodology ........................................................................................ 35
3.1. Introduction ................................................................................................... 35
3.2. Research Strategy .......................................................................................... 35
3.3. Data Generation Methods.............................................................................. 36
3.4. Data Analysis ................................................................................................ 37
3.5. Sampling........................................................................................................ 38
3.6. Ethics ............................................................................................................. 38
3.6.1. University of Derby General Research principles: ................................ 39
3.6.2. Important ethical research values this research designed on: ................ 40
3.7. Limitations .................................................................................................... 41
3.8. Conclusions ................................................................................................... 41
4. Findings and Analysis .......................................................................................... 42
4.1. Introduction ................................................................................................... 42
4.2. Analysis and findings .................................................................................... 43
4.2.1. Demographics ........................................................................................ 43
4.2.1.1. Responds by Gender........................................................................... 43
4.2.1.2. Responds by Age Groups ................................................................... 44
4.2.1.3. Responds by Country ......................................................................... 44
4.3. The Findings of This Study: .......................................................................... 45
4.3.1. GATCS Score: ....................................................................................... 45
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4.3.2. GATCS Score According to Gender...................................................... 47
4.3.3. GATCS Score according to age group................................................... 47
4.3.4. GATCS Score According to Country .................................................... 48
4.3.5. Research Designed questionnaire Results ............................................. 50
4.3.6. GATCS Against Research Questions .................................................... 50
4.3.7. Questions Results Linked With Literature Review ............................... 51
4.3.8. Key Findings .......................................................................................... 63
4.3.8.1. GATCS ............................................................................................... 63
4.3.8.2. Research Questions ............................................................................ 65
4.4. Conclusions ................................................................................................... 66
5. Discussion ............................................................................................................ 67
5.1. Introduction ................................................................................................... 67
5.2. Comparing TechnoStress Levels from Rosen and Weil 1995 until the Present
Study: 68
5.3. Present Study Discussion .............................................................................. 69
5.3.1. The Modern Technology and TechnoStress .......................................... 70
5.3.2. Smartphones and TechnoStress ............................................................. 71
5.3.3. Information Overload and TechnoStress ............................................... 72
5.3.4. Email Overload and TechnoStress ......................................................... 72
5.3.5. Constant Change and TechnoStress ....................................................... 73
5.3.6. Work Life Balance and TechnoStress.................................................... 74
5.4. Conclusion ..................................................................................................... 75
6. Conclusions and Recommendations .................................................................... 77
6.1. Conclusions ................................................................................................... 77
6.1.1. Levels of TechnoStress .......................................................................... 77
6.1.2. Study Results ......................................................................................... 78
6.1.3. Work Life Balance ................................................................................. 78
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6.2. Recommendations ......................................................................................... 79
6.2.1. Recommendations within the work environment .................................. 79
6.2.1.1. Proper training strategy ...................................................................... 79
6.2.1.2. Introduce new technologies gradually through sufficient strategies .. 79
6.2.1.3. Information overload control ............................................................. 80
6.2.1.4. Standardization policies ..................................................................... 80
6.2.1.5. Reliability ........................................................................................... 80
6.2.1.6. Leave space between work place and users ....................................... 80
6.2.1.7. Users Evaluation ................................................................................ 80
6.2.2. Recommendations within personal life .................................................. 81
6.2.2.1. Usage Limit ........................................................................................ 81
6.2.2.2. Avoid Blue light before sleep ............................................................ 81
6.2.2.3. Use what you need only ..................................................................... 81
6.2.2.4. Read more and be updated ................................................................. 82
6.2.2.5. Keep a space between technologies in weekends and vacations ....... 82
6.2.2.6. Involvement in useful, healthy activates ............................................ 82
7. Personal Reflection .............................................................................................. 83
7.1. Lessons Learned ............................................................................................ 84
7.2. Research Carry on point ................................................................................ 84
8. Bibliography ........................................................................................................ 85
9. Appendices ........................................................................................................... 89
9.1. Research Questions ....................................................................................... 89
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Table of Figures
Figure 1 TechnoStress Conditions ............................................................... 26
Figure 2 Information Overload Creators...................................................... 28
Figure 3 Drowning in Technology Overload (NewsComAu, 2014) ........... 30
Figure 4 The Seven Deadly Email Sins According to the British
Psychological Society .................................................................................................. 30
Figure 5 Responds by Gender ...................................................................... 43
Figure 6 Responds by Age ........................................................................... 44
Figure 7 Responds by Country .................................................................... 44
Figure 8 GATCS Results ............................................................................. 46
Figure 9 GATCS Results ............................................................................. 46
Figure 10 GATCS Score According to Gender ............................................. 47
Figure 11 GATCS Score According to Age .................................................. 47
Figure 12 GATCS Score According to Country ............................................ 48
Figure 13 GATCS Respondents From UK .................................................... 49
Figure 14 GATCS Respondents From Other Countries ................................ 49
Figure 15 Research designed questions results ............................................. 50
Figure 16 GATCS Against Research Questions ............................................ 50
Figure 17 Smartphones need to be with you all the time ............................... 51
Figure 18 Smartphones for most users is more than what they truly need .... 52
Figure 19 Check your smartphone before you sleep and as soon as you wake
up.................................................................................................................................. 52
Figure 20 Check your email before bed ......................................................... 53
Figure 21 Obsession of emailing even with the company of others .............. 54
Figure 22 Receive and respond to emails out of working hours.................... 54
Figure 23 It is better to shut down your smartphone while on vacation ........ 55
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Figure 24 Faster computers and smartphones are what people look for........ 55
Figure 25 It is difficult to ignore work related emails and calls even during
vacation ........................................................................................................................ 56
Figure 26 Smartphones engaged people into unyielding form of
communication ............................................................................................................. 57
Figure 27 Technology and communication tools are supposed to make life
simpler and easier ........................................................................................................ 57
Figure 28 Our weekend contain a massive load of information than average
...................................................................................................................................... 58
Figure 29 Stress among the employees in the work environment result with
poor job quality and less productivity .......................................................................... 58
Figure 30 Many work related tasks surpass the employee’s computer skills 59
Figure 31 Computers and internet is a big disability of human functionality 59
Figure 32 As soon as people get used to technology new related technologies
and updates will come in a short period of time .......................................................... 60
Figure 33 Computers allow employees to work simply from anywhere ....... 61
Figure 34 Employees are trapped and forced to complete work tasks even
outside the working hours .......................................................................................... 61
Figure 35 Managers need to seek employee’s satisfaction within the use of
technology to have a normal work life balance ........................................................... 62
Figure 36 Technology creates a huge liability and challenges among
corporates and organizations........................................................................................ 63
Figure 37 Comparison Between Different Studies ........................................ 68
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1. Introduction
1.1. Project Rationale
After the growth in computing and information technologies in corporations and IT
organizations, stress levels significantly increased; therefore, there is an urgent need
to study this phenomenon TechnoStress, to know why stress levels increased when
users interact with technology in the workplace. TechnoStress needs a lot of academic
investigation and research because of its effect on the outcomes and the processes of
the organization.
TechnoStress is the stress that attacks users of information and communication
technology (ICT), and as a result, it has influences and consequences on the
organization. There are many factors that create TechnoStress; these are referred to as
TechnoStress creators. TechnoStress creators decrease job satisfaction, and as a result,
they lead to organizational failures (Ragu-Nathan and Tarafdar et al., 2008, pp. 417-
433).
Lately, there have been many academic researchers who have been concerned about
significant increases of TechnoStress levels among corporations and organizations,
leading to serious consequences that will become physical and psychological illnesses
over time. These illnesses will then create many social, economic, and political
problems. Researchers worked and researched this phenomenon to identify the
reasons behind it and the solutions to overcome it. Broad in 1984, Rosen and Weil
1995, Clark and Kalin 1996 and Rosen and Weil 1997, Also Brillhart published a
book regarding the phenomenon in 2004.
According to Weil and Rosen (1997) and Broad (1984), work overload is a result of
TechnoStress, which frustrates users and leads to loss of motivation and work
dissatisfaction. Additionally, stress leads to lack of job performance and job
involvement.
To understand the organizational effects of the use of ICT, it is important to
understand the effects of users and job design with ICT, which is divided into three
streams: computer systems embedded in the work, computer numerically controlled
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machines, and computer integrated manufacturing. Users of ICT have shown negative
psychological reactions, such as computer anxiety, the fear of losing information, or
hitting a wrong key, and have shown computer phobia, which is the fear of using
technology (Ragu-Nathan and Tarafdar et al., 2008, pp. 417-433).
Organizational outcomes are significantly related to benefits of ICT, which provides
accuracy, reliability, and speed. On the other hand, ICT often puts employees under
the pressure of accomplishing more tasks than their normal ability with less time.
Therefore, it is vital to understand this dilemma and work on solutions and methods to
avoid stress in organizations.
1.2. Project Aim and Objectives
This project will focus on diagnosing the causes of TechnoStress and the reasons for
the incremental stress levels in order to identify remedial actions available to
corporate IT management and the IT supply world in order to reduce the levels of IT-
related stress in the workplace.
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2. Literature Review
2.1. Introduction
In 1983, the first private home computer was sold; not so far away from that year,
computers became very popular as a home machine. Similarly, cell phones also were
created and released in 1983, but they gained their popularity in the late 1990s.
Today, with the increase of computer usage among governments and organizations,
the usage is governed by many rules, laws and regulations (Rosen and Weil, 1995, pp.
9--31). Technology has become a main tool in our daily lives. Almost every simple
life task is very technologically dependable. From the minute we wake up until we
leave our houses, we will be integrated with a large number of technologies and
machines. Technology developments are changing our lives instantly (Aquilina,
2011). For example, in the old days, carrying a mobile phone everywhere as a
personal device was something rare (Rosen, 2011). Phone calls were only made
during working hours or later at home. Today if a person forgets his smart device, he
is terrorised by the idea of leaving the house without a phone, and questions in the
form of open-ended what ifs will appear in the person’s mind immediately. It is clear
that most people in such a situation prefer to go back and get the smartphone even if
they might be late for work (Aquilina, 2011).
Nowadays, the use of technology has significantly increased; it is used for many
indispensable tasks, such as banking, shopping, research, and data storage. The
technology is exploding gradually and regularly, especially with the easy internet
access. Life has become easy and extreme, and previously unthought-of opportunities
have been opened (Coklar and Sahin, 2011, pp. 171-182). Back in the 1980s,
computers were more powerful than the average family needed. The use of home
computers was simple; for example, they were used for doing children’s assignments
and playing games. Despite the bright side of modern technology and computer usage,
there is a dark side for some, maybe for every single human, who are always
interacting with technological devices. With this load of changing inventions within
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technology and computer smart devices, it is tough and almost impossible for users to
keep up with that load of constant change and invention (Rosenwald, 2014).
2.2. Smartphones and TechnoStress
For most users, smartphones are more then what they truly need. They are no longer
just mobile phones; they operate as phones, audio and video players, cameras, voice
recorders, portable computers, alarms, schedules, etc. They comes with functions that
might not appear in any one’s mind (Hanson, 2011). The revolution of mobile phones
began in 1973 in the hands of Martin Cooper (Hanson, 2011). However, smartphones
have only truly been available since 1993. In the early stages of smartphone
development, the usage was mainly and exclusively among enterprises. It was very
expensive for normal people to have a smartphone (Reed, 2010). The true smartphone
revolution started in 2002 by Blackberry. The standards of the normal mobile phone
completely changed at that point. New computing features were introduced with the
BlackBerry, such as emails, camera, audio and video player, and wireless connection
(Mobility & Email Blog, 2011).
In addition to the smartphone revolution, all expectations were broken in 2007 when
Apple released the iPhone (Hanson, 2011). With a charming and sleek touchscreen, it
was the first phone that made browsing the Web, checking voicemail, and listening to
music simply easy by swiping and tapping the touch screen (Chen, 2009). This was
followed by the Google Android operating system in 2008 that operates in several
devices, such as HTC devices (Hanson, 2011). Through to today, smartphones are
frequently changing and entering the market from many different manufacturers with
the focus of several new unique features and fast internet (Mobility & Email Blog,
2011). In addition, the electronic show in January 2014 in Las Vegas showed many
emerging and advanced smart devices. Things that used to be impossible and hard to
imagine were introduced at the show: computers you can wear, teddy bears that
measure pulse, social media apps available in automobiles, and iPhones that can
control drones (Rosenwald, 2014).
This is a good example of where technology is taking us, to paths and caves that get
us lost in confusion and overload. Many modern issues and diseases, such as stress,
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are related to technology. Many factors are surrounding the dilemma and increasing
stress levels while using technology, such as business and financial issues, when they
are techno related (Coklar and Sahin, 2011, pp. 171-182). Society has had a
noticeable technology influence, and the impact that technology created is something
irreversible. Computers are humans’ best buddy, and it is often impossible for an
individual to leave home without a mobile phone or a smart device (Mobility & Email
Blog, 2011). However, with that much of invention overload, it is not a surprise that
TechnoStress levels have increased since Rosen and Weil’s original study in 1995.
2.3. What Is Stress
The word stress carries many meanings beneath it. The term stress was first
recognized by Hans Selye regarding medicines in 1926 (Yu and Kuo et al., 2009, pp.
416-425). It was a result of a medical research led by Selye to develop a hormone.
Stress is a response by the body that appears in response to demands. Both bad and
good experiences can cause stress (Australian Psychological Society, 2012). Any
stressful activity surrounding humans will make the body release chemicals into the
blood as a reaction (BBC Science, 2013). Therefore, the chemicals released create
more strength and energy. If stress is caused by something emotional, it is bad and
negative; if it is a response to danger, then it is positive (Mtstcil, 2013). Stress can be
caused by many things, which can be divided into physical and emotional. Physical
stress is what is caused from danger and being afraid of something. On the other hand,
emotional stress is a result of anxiety and worrying from a family mater or something
related to job or school (Australian Psychological Society, 2012). Stress has a huge
effect on the body and the mind that can lead to exhaustion and sickness, such as a
mental breakdown of clear thinking (BBC Science, 2013).
2.3.1. Types of common stress
Survival stress: This is the kind of stress that happens in response to danger
and fear. The feeling of being physically harmed or in danger allows the
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human body to respond in a natural manner and boost energy to allow for
survival (Mtstcil, 2013).
Internal stress: This is the type of stress that involves worrying without any
reason or over something out of hand, and nothing can be done about it. This
kind of stress is the worst because it is not good to make ourselves stressed
over things we cannot control. People who live edgy and rushed lives are more
likely to be internally stressed even without a reason (Mtstcil, 2013).
Environmental stress: This type of stress is a result of things that surround
us, such as work and family pressure (Mtstcil, 2013).
Fatigue and overwork stress: This type of stress is a result of exhausting
activity, such as too much work in a job, at school, or even in the home. It is
very difficult to manage this kind of stress as it might be out of control
sometimes (Mtstcil, 2013).
2.4. What Is TechnoStress?
TechnoStress is a relatively modern disease caused by interacting and using
technology. Many researchers have devoted their time and effort researching the
reasons for the rise of TechnoStress on many aspects, such as business and education.
The word itself has been defined by a number of researchers. Academic researchers
defined TechnoStress in different words; some are similar, while others might have
some differences. Regardless, they all lead to the same conclusion and the same basic
meaning. Many different terms of TechnoStress are popular, such as Technophobia,
computer phobia, computer anxiety, cyber phobia, computer aversion, computer
stress, and negative computer attitudes (Yu and Kuo et al., 2009, pp. 416-425). All
those terms are related; even if they have some differences, they all lead to same
thing.
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2.4.1. TechnoStress Definitions
TechnoStress is a modern disease and failure of how to adapt and cope with new
computer technology (Brod, 1984). The acceptance of new computer technology is a
serious dilemma and a challenge for some people. TechnoStress is the anxiety and
instability created by using technology on a daily basis and the inability to cope with
new technologies. It is the struggle to adapt with and acceptance of computer
technologies (Tiemo and Ofua, 2010, pp. 713-720). TechnoStress is a dilemma and
disease that has an effect on many people without them even realizing it (Rosen and
Weil, 1995, pp. 9-31). It is a reaction by humans that is influenced and impacted by
the creation of technology (Weil and Rosen, n.d.).
TechnoStress is a new illness of acceptance caused by the difficulty in
handling new technologies (Brod, 1984).
TechnoStress is any harmful influence on confidence, opinions, and
actions or body physiology that can be caused directly or indirectly (Weil
and Rosen, 1997).
TechnoStress is negativity regarding computers in a global manner (Weil
and Rosen et al., 1990, pp. 361-379).
TechnoStress is undesirable understandings or self-deprecating inner
discourses while using a computer in the present or the future (Weil and
Rosen et al., 1990, pp. 361-379).
2.5. TechnoStress and TechnoPhobia
2.5.1. What Is a Phobia?
The term phobia can be defined as an illogical fear and anxiety condition that can be
created from something, such as situations, places, objects, creatures (Medical News
Today, 2014). It is a crushing and incapacitating fear (NHS, 2014).
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2.5.2. What Is TechnoPhobia?
TechnoPhobia is the fear and unacceptance towards computers and technology (Rosen
and Weil, 1992). It is a concern and fear of technology interactions in the present day
or in the future (Rosen and Weil, 1995, pp. 9-31). It is being worried and anxious
about involving in any computer or technology activity whether in current day or the
future (Weil and Rosen et al., 1990, pp. 361--379).
2.5.3. Difference Between TechnoStress and
TechnoPhobia
TechnoPhobia and TechnoStress are related they both cause stress and anxiety (Self
and Aquilina, 2013, pp. 117--127). They both are the same thing, same creators of
TechnoStress applies on TechnoPhobia and it goes opposite in the same way.
Conditions such as information overload, invention and complexity are shared factors
between TechnoStress and TechnoPhobia. It was first called TechnoPhobia in original
study in 1995 by Rosen and Weil, and then changed to TechnoStress with the
following studies.
2.6. Evaluation of TechnoStress
There is an urgent need to understand whether the levels of TechnoStress have
increased from the time of the original research of Rosen and Weil in 1995. It is
expected that the world would have found solutions to reduce some of the technology-
related stress (Self and Aquilina, 2013, pp. 117-127). It is obvious in our daily life
dealings that we do not have a full trust in ICT. It is not surprising if something went
wrong with a purchase transaction through the web and worked perfectly the next day
like something dint happen (Self and Aquilina, 2013, pp. 117-127). Back in the year
1983, school teachers were intimidated to be computer literate. Studies showed even
though computers are available in classrooms, it is not necessary to involve them in
the studying process (Rosen and Weil, 1995, pp. 9-31). When people must to interact
19
with technology in the early stages even though they are uncomfortable with that, it is
obvious they will have technological disquiet sooner or later (Weil and Rosen et al.,
1990, pp. 361-379). It is recommended to introduce technology to people in early
stages by someone who is content with and optimistic about the use of computers
(Weil and Rosen et al., 1990, pp. 361-379).
Technology-related stress has been studied around many business people, students,
and teachers (Rosen and Weil, 1995, pp. 9-31). Through the research around the
phenomenon, some conclusions inferred that the increment in the TechnoStress levels
are related to the quality of experience and support (Self and Aquilina, 2013, pp. 117-
127). Therefore, many specialists and researchers have suggested computer training to
reduce computer anxiety (Rosen and Weil, 1995, pp. 9-31). People who suffer from
stress when they are forced to work with computers intend to make more mistakes and
take a long time to complete a task, resulting in a poor performance that increases
stress levels and creates low self-esteem (Rosen and Weil, 1995, pp. 9-31). The study
of computer-related anxiety and stress by Rosen and Weil’s (1995) showed that more
than half of elementary school teachers suffered from issues when interacting with
computers at that period in time. While one third and one half of secondary teachers
have issues such as anxiety and stress when dealing with computers. Moreover,
university students showed less stress levels when interacting with computers (Rosen
and Weil, 1995, pp. 9-31).
Being in charge to do a job with a computer is a huge responsibility on workers, such
as business people and teachers. The idea of being in charge and responsible for the
computer itself creates anxiety and rising stress levels (Rosen and Weil, 1995, pp. 9-
31). There is a myth about computer experience saying that without experience, the
phenomenon will rule people’s lives; therefore, people need to be experienced while
using a computer (Rosen and Weil, 1995, pp. 9-31). However, the study by Rosen
Weil (1995) showed that this myth is false. There are other important elements other
than computer experience (Rosen and Weil, 1995, pp. 9-31). A research survey
among managers has made in order to sense their feelings about coping with
technology in the work environments and if the process of completing a task through
computers decrease stress levels. Results showed that 75% of the managers find
technology as something that increases stress levels in the workplace (Wang and Shu
20
et al., 2008, pp. 3002-3013). Perplexing questions surround the phenomenon.
Questions such is the entrance of technology through people’s lives something
optional or is it something forced upon them. It is not necessary to be happy with
something just because you are using it (Self and Aquilina, 2013, pp. 117-127). Those
questions reflect the experience of humans with technology. It is a threat that a huge
layer of mankind might feel marginalised if they did not have the ability or the
motivation to interact with and use technology (Self and Aquilina, 2013, pp. 117-
127).
2.7. Symptoms of TechnoStress
TechnoStress strikes with many symptoms, and some of them are obvious and clear
while others are hidden. Moreover, some of the symptoms can be divided into two
main categories: psychological and physical. Each category and aspect contains many
symptoms and consequences. Not only that, but also depending on the intensity of the
symptoms, many serious and lasting damages can occur, leading to many serious
problems that create huge liabilities on society, economics, health, educational, and
politics. According to many researchers who have spent their time and education
investigating TechnoStress, there are many symptoms. Some symptoms of
TechnoStress are found among many researchers, and some of them are exclusively a
result and finding of a specific researcher. Many researchers and professors have a
different diagnosing set of symptoms applied as the main symptoms of TechnoStress.
Anxiety while using computers is one of the most popular symptoms of TechnoStress.
Regardless of how TechnoStress manifests, high frustration, anxiety, and desperation
creates TechnoStress within the work boundaries (Rosch, 1994, pp. 217-222).
2.7.1. Psychological aspects of stress
The psychological aspect of TechnoStress can be a serious and dangerous challenge
through causing mental illness, sleeping problems, and lankness, while on the
physical aspect stomach and colonic illness might appear. It can also cause headaches,
21
high blood pressure, and heart attacks (Brillhart, 2004). The psychological evaluation
processes contain a primary and secondary evaluation process. The primary
evaluation process is responsible for the threats created by the environment. On the
other hand, the secondary evaluation process is a complicated procedure, and it gives
the person a chance to choose methods to adapt with the stressor (Yu and Kuo et al.,
2009, pp. 416-425). When someone is unable to adapt with the stressor in this second
phase, stress reactions will occur, such as sudden sadness, guilt, anxiety, fear, feelings
of disgust, low self-esteem, and shame. Not only that, but stress can also cause
headaches and bone pain to occur when experiencing intense loads of TechnoStress
(Harper, 2000, pp. 18-2).
2.7.2. Physiological aspects of stress
The physical stress reactions can be identified in many systems according to the
person and the situation itself. Stress can be a relationship between a person and the
surrounding environment (Lazarus and Folkman, 1984). Physical symptoms can be in
the form of headaches, insomnia, muscle problems and aches in the joints (Brod,
1984). The experimental rats have been showing that some symptoms, such as cold,
heat, infection, and nervousness, increase when under the pressure of stress. Hans
Selye called this a biological stress syndrome; Selye said that stress is a nonspecific
reaction of the body to any situation (Yu and Kuo et al., 2009, pp. 416-425). It is clear
from the definition that stress is a physiological reaction and stressor; it is the
requirement that arouses the reaction (Yu and Kuo et al., 2009, pp. 416-425).
Researchers have shown that the experience of high noradrenaline and adrenaline
during work times is related with under-load and overload limits of stress (Arnetz and
Berg, 1993). The increase of those hormones creates nervousness, fast heart beats, and
high blood pressure (Yu and Kuo et al., 2009, pp. 416-425). All those symptoms are
obvious on people who have a task that need to be done through a computer (Muter
and Furedy et al., 1993, pp. 105-111). Different researchers notice that there is an
increase of the conductance of the skin while working on a computer (Muter and
Furedy et al., 1993, pp. 105-111). The skin conductance means that the nervous
22
reactions are increasing while preforming a computer task. Not only that, but also the
rise of the jaw muscle electromyography is like pressing on your teeth as an anger
reaction while dealing with computers (Emurian, 1991, pp. 291-310).
Technology also plays a major role in sleep disorders. A hormone called melatonin
helps controls sleep in human body (Rettner, 2013). Normally, the melatonin
decreases in the body in the early day hours and increases in the later times of day.
The blue light that comes from most technological devices, such as computers,
smartphones, and TVs, creates a melatonin disorder in the human body. When the
human body interacts with blue light before going to bed, the levels of melatonin in
the body drop, and this can causes deferred and restless sleep (Health Harvard, 2012).
So as an effect of lack of sleep, stress intensity will increase during the day and
working hours. Imagine if a person did not get enough sleep because of the blue light
from electronic devices, such as computers and smartphones, especially if the person
needed to work all day behind a computer, doing one task after another. The stress
levels will increase in a significantly scary ways that might create serious health
issues (Rettner, 2013).
In the old days, when people did not have electricity, the energy and light sources
were based on candles, gas lamps, and natural moon light. People used to sleep early
after the sun went down. They did not interact with any source of blue light. This is
the main reason our ancestors did not suffer from serious health issues and sleeping
disorders. Conversely, our modern lives keep us awake until very late hours, up to 2-4
am. Kids and teenagers play video games while adults are checking their emails or
watching TV (Health Harvard, 2012). One of the direct aspects of stress caused by
technology is the way it might affect the body. Technology is sleep’s worst enemy, so
as a result, how does a healthy body be fulfilled without getting a fair amount of sleep
on a daily basis. All the functions of the human body and system are supported by
sleep. Thus, a lack of sleep can mean that the immunity system will be weak, muscles
will not be normal, and the body’s hormones will not be balanced (Rettner, 2013). In
a previous study that was conducted randomly among five clinics, 1500 patients were
selected, and they had to complete a questionnaire that contained questions about
sleep and medical encounters. The questionnaire also included demographic variables
and depression screening questions. The results showed that around one third of the
23
patients suffered from insomnia (Hatoum and Kong et al., 1998, pp. 629-637). As a
result, it is obvious that without enough sleep, it is difficult to live stress free and
healthily.
2.8. Consequences of TechnoStress
TechnoStress creates a huge liability and challenges among corporations and
organizations all over the globe (Self and Aquilina, 2013, pp. 117-127). With the
significant increase of computer usage among organizations, rules and regulations are
followed to control and judge abilities and credibility of the employers (Rosen and
Weil, 1995, pp. 9-31). When TechnoStress reaches the organization, it creates an
unstable and stressful ‘work life balance’. As a result, organizations will not achieve
the intended goals; therefore, the outcomes will reduce, and eventually, the benefits
will not be as expected (Self and Aquilina, 2013, pp. 117-127). According to
Professor Paula Brough, who is lecturer in psychology at Griffith University in
Australia, TechnoStress is a technology-related stress that is increasing among the
employers and the workforce, which is resulting in poor job quality and less
productivity (NewsComAu, 2013). Corporations are very careless about pleasing the
users. In addition, systems are upgraded and constant changes are happening even
when they are useless to users (Self and Aquilina, 2013, pp. 117-127). It is clearly
obvious that ICT has a huge influence on organizational outcomes (Ragu-Nathan and
Tarafdar et al., 2008, pp. 417-433).
Stress levels are increasing in the context of technology when people interact with
technological systems, which lead to irreversible physical health consequences, such
as heart attacks and high blood pressure (Self and Aquilina, 2013, pp. 117-127). Our
personal behaviours are changing, which is influenced by how our job changes
because of ICT (Ragu-Nathan and Tarafdar et al., 2008, pp. 417-433). Richard Self, a
Senior Lecturer in Business, Informatics and Information Governance at the
University of Derby inferred that the impacts of TechnoStress are increasing
significantly in a scary manner. The phenomenon acquired his attention and research.
He said today’s kids in schools are forced to learn complicated computer skills that
24
are the same as the skills taught to computer science students in universities. Maybe
it’s an initiative to create a computed generation that, as a result, will increase
computer development, such as applications and programing in the future, for
example, but what is the purpose of having many applications that break down
constantly and are unreliable for users. We do not need to learn how to build a car to
drive it, and the same is true with computers; it is not necessary to make one to be
able to use it. This supports the evidence of other researchers all that load of multi
tasks, complexity and invention creates a long congestion chain of accumulated stress
congestions.
2.9. Causes of TechnoStress
The phenomenon TechnoStress is something complicated and difficult to explain
(Tiemo and Ofua, 2010, pp. 713-720). According to Rosen and Weil, the experience
of using computers plays the most important role in TechnoStress (Rosen and Weil,
1995, pp. 9-31). Previous studies that have been made on academic students, teachers,
and business men showed that TechnoStress is related with current and future
interrogations to computers or similar technological devices (Rosen and Weil, 1995,
pp. 9-31). Technology changes constantly, quick and fast. As soon as people get used
to a technology, new related technologies and updates will come in a quick period of
time. This situation creates devastating feelings (Wang and Shu et al., 2008, pp. 3002-
3013). A major role of increasing TechnoStress between the 70s and the 80s is that
most business managers did not provide efficient training when technology was first
introduced. Further, most managers did not include employees in the decision-making
process while using those new technologies (Tiemo and Ofua, 2010, pp. 713-720).
Most reasons that create an intense increase of TechnoStress include week training,
organizational failures, lack of computer experience, outdated equipment, anxiety,
data overload, quick/sudden changes, lack of standardization, overwork, verbal
pressure, harsh language, or different established boundaries in front of others (Clute,
1998). Moreover, reliability and an unhealthy work environment also increase
TechnoStress levels in the workplace (Tiemo and Ofua, 2010, pp. 713-720). For
25
example, with each new computer generation, most of the hardware and the software
are changing. With each new type of hardware, the speed increases. People are not
asking for faster machines, but manufacturers are making them. Further, the
programmers use the power as delivered.
The iPhone 5s, for example, now contains a new A7 duel-core processor (Colon,
2013). It is possible to open two applications at the same time with such a powerful
processor. The question here is why does anyone need to open several applications
and use them exactly at the same time. Smartphones today have incredible computing
abilities; therefore, complexity comes as a result, creating baffling and mystifying
effects (Rosenwald, 2014). Those features and options provided by manufacturers
increase TechnoStress levels. One PhD student at George Mason University, Kyle
O’Donnell, was stunned by his iPhone’s abilities; he discovered things he never knew
were available or if they could be true. The voice command directions truly amazed
Kyle as he did not know that such an option was available. Conversely, he was not
happy with that because he did not want to get directions by voice command because
he found it confusing (Rosenwald, 2014).
Even with new, emerging, and improved technology, some business holders refuse to
dispose of those slow, old computers (Hudiburge, 1996). Since there are no standards
on most of the websites and how they are designed, maintained, and updated, the
internet can be identified as one of the main causes of TechnoStress. For example,
experiencing the loss of an internet connection or application that shuts down
suddenly with no reason (Weil and Rosen, 1997) causes stress. It is a serious situation
to handle all that overload (Kupersmith, 1992). Stress can also be increased indirectly
by technology. Workers might have easy access to information in the workplace. The
information technology and systems allow employers to work simply from anywhere.
However, the same technologies can make employees obsessive about working with
technology so as an effect, they will feel trapped and forced to complete the tasks and
reply to information regarding the work. This creates confusion and anxiety in “work /
life balance”, leading employees with no time to think in a sustainable, creative, and
analytic aspect (Tarafdar and Tu et al., 2011, pp. 113-120). Managers need to seek
employees’ satisfaction and ensure they are comfortable in the work environment to
have a normal “work / life balance”. This will then result in positive corporate and
26
organizational income because increasing stress levels that are driven by technology
lead to catastrophes failures.
2.10. TechnoStress Conditions
Figure 1 TechnoStress Conditions
TechnoStress is used as a concept of a person, and environment theory is used to
explain the phenomenon (Ayyagari et Tarafdar and Tu et al 2007). TechnoStress can
be divided into several conditions and aspects, see figure 1. First, technological
overload, which is defined as a condition or situation when a person or employee is
under the pressure of accomplishing many tasks in less time, forces employees to do
the work fast. The techno overload includes multitasking (Rosen, 2011) where many
tasks need to be done once or in less time. Interruptions such as emails and social
media networks are additional example of techno overload (Tarafdar and Tu et al.,
2011, pp. 113-20). Second, techno invasion is where the employees are always
reachable and do not have a chance to escape. They feel that they are trapped because
they can be reached at any time and in any place (Tarafdar and Tu et al., 2011, pp.
113-120). Third, is techno complexity, which is the effect of the limitless computer
applications and programs. Since technology is frequently changing, the programs and
27
the systems change, forcing employees and people to learn how to use new systems
and new devices. Techno complexity can be very annoying, especially when it comes
to people who do not like to use computers in the first place (Tarafdar and Tu et al.,
2011, pp. 113-120). The fourth condition is techno-security. Techno-security can be
defined as the situation of fear and pressure that employees get when they are
threatened and afraid to lose their jobs and positions to new people who are more
experienced with technology. The final condition is Techno uncertainty, since
information systems are upgraded frequently, so it is almost impossible for people and
users to develop their skills and create a solid substance (Tarafdar and Tu et al., 2011,
pp. 113-120). See figure 1.
2.10.1. Techno Overload
Devices that are little and brutalizing, such as smartphones, allow users to navigate
and receive emails and evolve in social media platforms, such as Twitter, Facebook,
updates and notifications even if the person or the worker is taking his vacation and
annual leave (Rosen, 2011). In the old days with poor dial-up internet connections,
people rarely checked their emails one time per day. The techno revolution makes the
internet connection faster, cheaper and more accessible via smartphones and small
computer tablets anytime and anywhere (Russell, 2014). Information used to be
printed and stored as a printed material in 1950. While in recent days, the print stored
materials do not exceed 0.03%, according to students from Berkley University
(Newman, 2002). Overload is a situation of the person or individual’s ability to
process the information that has exceeded their limits and rises to a maximum
situation (Eppler and Mengis, 2004, pp. 325-344). Even if the employee has one task
to accomplish, he might be overloaded with related or none-related information to
complete a certain task (Ayyagari, 2012). Some employees are afraid not to respond
even if they are on vacation. The fear might be created from pressure from superiors
that the employees might be replaced with someone else. Despite the stress that
technology throws on some employees, even many of the rest are bothered by apps,
blogs, websites, and social media platforms, see figure 2. Individuals today are so
28
reachable, almost within a pull of hand. Smartphones have engaged people into an
unyielding form of communication.
Figure 2 Information Overload Creators
It is important to deal with overload as a main reason of TechnoStress instead of
considering it a dimension of TechnoStress (Ayyagari, 2012). It is a serious health
matter because intense overload has a dangerous consequence on people’s mental
wellness (NewsComAu, 2013). Technology and communication tools are supposed to
make life simpler and easier. It is clear that technology is a weapon or enemy with
two different faces as it becomes a horrible nightmare to many employees and
organizations (NewsComAu, 2013). Our weekends contain a massive load of
information than has historically been an average. People back in the 17th century did
not have 5% of what we experiencing as information overload (Newman, 2002).
Broadly, eccentric feelings might get created in a situation where the environment
places a demand, but the person’s ability to perform to the demand is limited. For
instance, tasks that are demanded from employers and managers might surpass the
person’s power to complete and deal with it. Another example is when the employee
is in a situation where his job requirement does not meet his values (Ayyagari, 2012).
29
Many studies and researches are taking place that are centred on TechnoStress. The
studies have found that more than five hours behind the computer screen creates eye
strain, headaches, anxiety, and poor sleep. In America, more than 50% of the day time
is wasted by workers to process documents. This creates intensity in stress levels that
leads to difficulty of decision making and eventually failures in a personal aspect of
life, such as relationships and family life (Newman, 2002). Further, research by The
University of Manchester's Institute of Science found that people think they have
targets to meet through social platforms and without being obsessed with chat rooms,
their chance might vanish to meet a person they might be interested in. This is another
example of how modern technology creates unnecessary pressures (NewsComAu,
2013). The dean of the School of Communications and Information Systems at Robert
Morris College in Illinois Frederick Kohun referred to the technology of computers
and internet as a big disability of human functionality. With this high level of
overload, information is difficult and impossible to be processed, especially without
enough tools (Newman, 2002). An American University in California founded that
technology overload and being attached with your computer or device to check emails
24/7 had increased heart problems. The increase of stress hormones in the human
body has led to deadly health problems on a long-term basis (NewsComAu, 2013).
Thousands of employees in the UK seek therapy treatment because of the overload
technology creates within their work environment (Newman, 2002). With the
overload of information, many people turned dependent on technology in a negative
way. They never feel that that information they have is enough and are always
searching for more information. Therefore, decisions rarely happen when you intend
them to occur at a specific time. They think with more research, they might find
evidence that will create differences in the aimed matter (Newman, 2002). Figure 3 is
showing a sarcastic image of the consequences of information overload.
30
Figure 3 Drowning in Technology Overload (NewsComAu, 2014)
2.10.2. Emails Overload
Figure 4 The Seven Deadly Email Sins According to the British Psychological Society
31
The obsession among employees and workers to check their emails leads to serious
mental illness pathways, according to Kingston Business School of Research. There
are seven deadly sins that are identified by Dr Emma Russell that lead to serious
consequences if the situation is not rectified, see figure 4. Most intense habits with
emails that create TechnoStress include ping-pong messaging and reading related
receipt. By investigating the most reasons that create stress, the results have showed
that the email activity is the main stress creator (Russell, 2014). Being required to
answer emails by employees might create a perfect image of sincerity and dedication.
But, on the other hand, it can make the employees attached and addicted in a way that
might be incurable (Russell, 2014). This creates a negative liability for the employees,
who will feel it is necessary to respond and check their emails repeatedly (Russell,
2014). A survey in the United States showed that it is impossible for employees to get
away from the work environment; even if they leave the workplace, they are required
to answer their mobile phones and emails (Newman, 2002).
Email users have been analysed among several companies to discover and document
the positive and negative sides of using emails on the job aspect. Sometimes problems
can be created for the receiver instead of the sender. This kind of attitude might reflect
a negative image about the person. It is not a bad idea to have the email alerts on, in
case of a serious matter, and it is important to show concern to the other people
around you. However, it might create a false impression if the sender will be attracted
away from other important tasks he needs to accomplish (Russell, 2014). Moreover
the phenomenon, which is called absent presence, is something that on the rise with
smartphones. It is very easy for employees to respond to incoming emails even while
being with other people, but this creates a physical presence and mental absence.
False or correct feelings can be created about how important those emails are to us
and whether they are really that important (Russell, 2014).
Another aspect of email overload is ignoring emails. This feeling exists when the
email inbox volume is overloaded, Things might get out of control, especially if the
employees are suffering from other TechnoStress symptoms, such as insomnia and
anxiety. A feeling of desperation and self-uselessness might occur because of the
overload of the email volume. People and employees deal with this situation with
many different methods, such as erasing the whole inbox, looking away from the
32
computer, and ignoring specific people. Emails are supposed to make work easier and
faster, but in this case, it is creating anxiety and frustration that is resulting in a lack of
productivity (Russell, 2014). Researches have shown that automatic email replies
raises the blood pressure. Those automatic replies can be annoying to both sender and
receiver. The senders will get annoyed because of overlooking many of the emails,
and the receivers are annoyed because of the possibility that the system might broke
(Russell, 2014). The seven deadly email sins according to the British Psychological
Society's annual conference in January (Russell, 2014) are as follows (See Figure 4):
1. Creating long email chains back and forward - Ping ponging
2. An immediate response to email alerts
3. Obsession of emailing even when in the company of others
4. Completely ignoring of the whole email inbox
5. Automatic replies
6. Receive emails outside of the working hours
7. Asking for read receipt
2.11. Conclusions
The world has changed from the influence of new technologies. The reactions of
people are affected because of the constant emerging technologies (Boehme-Nessler,
2011). Over the course history, there has been a fear that technology is a cultural
threat. Not only that, but there have also been some other considerations regarding
technology, such as political, economic, and social dimensions and how technology
might affect those sectors (Boehme-Nessler, 2011). It is a huge dilemma to have huge
stress levels increasing instantly because of something that should be helpful.
Therefore, a solution must be found to overcome the rising stress levels while using
technology. TechnoStress has engaged researchers for decades; therefore, there are a
huge number of researchers who dedicated their time and effort to discover and find
33
out more about the relationship between technology and stress. Furthermore, with the
increase of researches around the phenomenon TechnoStress, people will start to
realize the consequences and have a more aware attitude. Then the way we use
technology will start to change.
2.11.1. Key Issues
TechnoStress is related with current and future interrogations to computers or similar
technological devices (Rosen and Weil, 1995, pp. 9-31). Technology and
communication tools are supposed to make life simpler and easier (NewsComAu,
2013). Today, if a person forgets his smart device, he will panic and go back home to
retrieve it (Aquilina, 2011). For most users, smartphones are more than what they
truly need. Smartphones contain intelligent computing features (Hanson, 2011).
There is an urgent need to understand if the levels of TechnoStress have increased
from the time of the original research of Rosen and Weil in 1995. It is anticipated that
solutions have been made to decrease TechnoStress levels ever since the original
study (Self and Aquilina, 2013, pp. 117-127). People’s personal behaviours and
attitudes are changing under the influence of job changes because of ICT (Ragu-
Nathan and Tarafdar et al., 2008, pp. 417-433). Some previous conclusions aimed that
TechnoStress levels are increasing because of experience and support (Self and
Aquilina, 2013, pp. 117-127). As a result, many specialists and researchers suggested
computer training to reduce computer anxiety (Rosen and Weil, 1995, pp. 9-31). It is
recommended that technology is introduced to people in early stages to have a more
positive impression (Weil and Rosen et al., 1990, pp. 361-379).
TechnoStress increased for many reasons, including weak training, organizational
failures, a lack of computer experience, outdated, anxiety, data overload,
quick/sudden changes, overwork, verbal pressure, harsh language with employees,
and lack of standardization (Clute, 1998). Moreover, because most websites do not
have specific standards, the internet is considered as one of the main causes of
TechnoStress.
34
Overload needs to be considered as a main cause of TechnoStress, not just a
dimension (Ayyagari, 2012). Our weekends contain an enormous load of information,
so the fear of not responding to work-related emails or calls increases stress levels
(Newman, 2002). It is impossible to process work with an overload and the lack of
appropriate tools (Newman, 2002). One of overload’s negative images is that
technology has made people dependent (Newman, 2002). Consequences of
TechnoStress when it reaches the organization are that it creates an unstable and
stressful work-life balance’. Corporations and organizations all over the globe suffer
from the consequences and liabilities of TechnoStress (Self and Aquilina, 2013, pp.
117-127). Work environments are controlled with rules and regulations; therefore,
judgment and credibility with computer use creates a scary image in employees’ mind
(Rosen and Weil, 1995, pp. 9-31). Corporations do not make user satisfaction their
main aim (Self and Aquilina, 2013, pp. 117-127). It is important to have a balanced
work life to have good income and results; this is a manager’s responsibility to ensure
creating a good “work / life balance” which pursue employees’ satisfaction to
maximize their commitment, happiness, and productivity.
2.11.2. Refined Research Questions
User work- life balance is not a main concern to most of managers?
Fear of not being available while on vacation creates intense overload
congestion?
Smartphones contain more information overload than most people need or
use?
Does people’s behaviour change because of technology’s influence on
work aspects?
Information overload is one of the main reasons of TechnoStress?
TechnoStress levels have increased in corporations and organizations?
35
3. Research Methodology
3.1. Introduction
Computer technologies have gained control all over our lives and affect us in a
multitude of ways. Therefore, stress levels have significantly increased as a result of
that increased computer engagement. It is important to investigate the reasons for the
rise of TechnoStress levels compared to the original research by Rosen and Weil
(1995). The aim of this study is to evaluate the phenomenon of TechnoStress from the
early 1990s up through recent times, to examine the reasons for the rise in stress
levels in the workplace when interacting with technology, to discover what lies
beneath TechnoStress in terms of the physical/psychological aspects, and to examine
how it affects work-life balance and creates corporate and organizational liabilities
that lead to poor performance and outcomes. The methodology of a research is the
way of collecting data and progressing measurement to achieve success (The
University of Manchester, n.d.). Research methods and strategies will be designed to
collect and analyse the data, and those methods and strategies are detailed in the
following sections.
3.2. Research Strategy
Research is the procedure of using certain innovative information to satisfy the
research users (Oates, 2006). Research strategy includes the procedural planning of
the actions that direct the research effort to output organized results instead of chaotic
data (Library Unca Edu, 2014). The use of the survey in this research will justify the
research points by making a fair and reliable comparison among participants, and then
the total result statistics will be compared with Rosen and Weil’s (1995) results in
order to recognise stress levels back in 1995 and compare them to the 2014 levels.
This research will work on a plan of strategies and methods to generate efficient,
36
useful results. First, the main research strategy is to use Rosen and Weil approach
using the General Attitudes Toward Computers Scale (GATCS) questionnaire joined
with a chain of 20 questions designed and based on the literature review. Then the
findings and results will be compared to see whether the levels of TechnoStress
among corporations and organizations increased or decreased since the Rosen and
Weil (1995) findings and the Self and Aquilina (2013) study.
3.3. Data Generation Methods
Data generation methods will be based on the original questionnaire by Rosen and
Weil (1995). The questionnaire is designed on the GATCS, which contains 20
questions. The aim of the GATCS questions is to see results towards computers from
people who work in education, healthcare, and similar work environments (Rosen and
Weil, 1992). The answers for the GATCS are confined to five choices between
“strongly agree” and “strongly disagree” (Rosen and Weil, 1992). Based on the
answers, the results will be divided into three categories: high technophobia, low
technophobia, and no technophobia. The questions are divided into two categories:
positive and negative. This scale has been used in eight studies during that period of
time (Rosen and Weil, 1992). This scale reflects the participants’ general attitude
towards computers as the higher the score goes, the more positive results that come
out (Rosen and Weil, 1992). Only this scale will be used because previous researches
have showed that the Computer Anxiety Rating Scale (CARS) and the Computer
Thoughts Survey (CTS) will not bring out many useful results in modern times
because many technology differences have occurred since the original study in 1995.
Moreover, a set of 20 questions designed based on the literature review are provided.
The questionnaire content focuses on the most valuable points of the research that will
be used to keep up with the constant technology changes and to justify the research.
The set of the 20 research questions will use same measurement method as GATCS,
but in this case all questions are formulated in a negative form this is because this
study aims to identify the reasons of increment of TechnoStress levels in work place.
37
The results of responds will be categorised according to the score same as GATCS
(Rosen and Weil, 1992).
No Technophobia: 64-100
Low Technophobia: 56-63
Moderate/High Technophobia: 20-55
The questionnaire will be based on an electronic survey made through Lime Survey
through the University of Derby and then will be posted by email and on social media
platforms, such as Facebook and Twitter. In addition, BlackBerry messenger and
WhatsApp have been used to share the survey link with participants. Most of the
participants are school teachers and college instructors in the education field, but
employees in business and IT fields and students are also included. The aim is to have
the questionnaire completed by 100-200 people to obtain enough data and findings,
which then will be analysed and processed.
The main aim of this questionnaire is to identify whether stress levels are increasing
among employees even though most people in the new generation are familiarised
with technology compared with Rosen and Weil’s 1995 questionnaire. People back
then were not as technologically sophisticated and familiarised as individuals are
today. However, even with the technology awareness among the new generation, the
stress levels may be increasing when people are interacting with technology;
therefore, this questionnaire is aimed to expose the stress levels and whether they are
rising or decreasing in work environments.
3.4. Data Analysis
Quantitative data is the evidence according to the survey numbers (Oates, 2006). In
this part, all the data gathered from the participants will be processed and analysed.
The process of data collection will be turned into number bars and charts in order to
clarify the results and outcomes (Oates, 2006). This will connect the pieces to present
38
a clear and understandable image whether the level of TechnoStress has increased
since the 1995 Rosen and Weil research and other previous studies.
3.5. Sampling
Data sampling will be gathered by the questionnaire that aims to target people who
work in education, IT and business fields through emails and social media platforms.
Nevertheless, paper surveys will be used to complete the results in case of low online
participants. The number or targets will be somewhere between 100 – 200 individuals.
The region will be multi- region. People from all over the world will be targeted; most
people will be from the UK and Qatar.
3.6. Ethics
Ethics is a very important aspect of research because it endorses the aims of a
research. It also encourages the important collaborative work of trust, fairness, and
accountability (Resnik, 2011). A research study must consider several important
morals and social values, such as human rights, obedience with the law, health, and
safety (Resnik, 2011). The University of Derby research ethics policy is mainly
focused on preventing and protecting the rights of safety, privacy of the subjects, and
rights such as dignity, animal welfare, and environmental integrity. Not only that, but
it also is concerned with the protection of health, academic freedom, and safety of
researchers and university reputation as a high education research institute (University
of Derby, 2011). This research is designed in the frame of ethical values that are a
main standard. Individuals who are participating in the questionnaire survey are
guaranteed to have their identities, age, and gender kept confidential in case they do
not wish to declare that information. Before any participant starts the questionnaire,
he will be informed with an explanation about the research purpose and numbers of
questions in the online survey. All humans’ rights will be respected, and each
participant will be treated with full respect whether via an online interface or through
a face-to-face meeting.
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3.6.1. University of Derby General Research principles:
Researchers need to consider consequences of a research and whether there are risks
or benefits. The ethical implications must be considered by researchers, including
aspects such as physiological, psychological, social, religious, political,
environmental, and cultural. All of the information and points in this section are based
on the University of Derby Policy and Code of Practice on Research Ethics
(University Research Ethics Committee, 2011).
Informed consent
The rights of others who might be affected directly or indirectly by the research will
be respected. All participants will be informed about the nature of the research.
Parents will be informed, and permission will be obtained from them when a research
involves young children.
Data protection and Confidentiality
The confidentiality of participants needs to be protected and remain anonymous. No
identity will be revealed unless participants write and signed a statement granting
permission. The procedure of data collection, disclosure, storage, and the use of data
need to obey the 1998 Data Protection Act.
Research in public places
The laws and rules of public respect and decency must be considered when research
includes public places.
Academic Integrity
All research aspects need to follow the integrity principles. Honesty needs to be a
main research element. The outcomes of the research are expected to contain credits
of others work. If a researcher did not mention others work and has not cited properly,
this is considered as plagiarism.
The responsibilities of Contractual in a research
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3.6.2. Important ethical research values this research
designed on:
Honesty
Work will be conducted in an honest manner and will provide facts with the data,
methods, results, and the process. No fabrication and misguiding or misuse of the
information will take place (Resnik, 2011).
Objectivity
A fair and objective approach will be taken in the whole process of the research
(Resnik, 2011).
Integrity
Research will make every attempt to ensure work on agreements and promises are
honest (Resnik, 2011).
Carefulness
The work quality will be checked and examined to avoid errors (Resnik, 2011).
Openness
The data, ideas, results, and tools will be openly shared (Resnik, 2011).
Respect for Intellectual Property
All partners and copyrights will be respected, and no work will be used without
citation (Resnik, 2011).
Confidentiality
Participants’ data and communications will be kept confidential (Resnik, 2011).
Legality
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The research will work in the frame of the law and governmental policies (Resnik,
2011).
3.7. Limitations
The outcomes of corporations and organizations are engaged with the benefits of ICT,
which provide accuracy, reliability, and speed. On the other hand, ICT often puts the
employees under many stressful aspects, such as multitasking, invasion, and overload.
This research aims to investigate the reasons for the increase of stress levels in the
workplace in order to reduce the levels of IT-related stress in the work environment
by diagnosing the causes of TechnoStress. After the questionnaire is released to
participants, the results will be compared with the results of the 1995 Rosen and Weil
study results and the Self and Aquilina (2013) study to clarify the image and use
evidentiary data to determine whether stress levels have increased.
3.8. Conclusions
This chapter is designed to explain how data will be collected from participants and
then analysed to justify the research case. The questionnaire to be used is based on
Rosen and Weil’s (1995) GATCS questionnaire combined with a set of questions
based on the literature review aims and outcomes. The main layer of participants will
be people involved in education, IT, and business organizations. Results will then be
compared with Rosen and Weil’s (1995) study results and Self and Aquilina’s (2013)
study results to determine whether TechnoStress levels have dramatically increased.
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4. Findings and Analysis
4.1. Introduction
In this section of the study, the questionnaire results will be evaluated and analysed in
order to identify the stress levels when individuals interact with technology in the
work environment. It is aimed to compare the results from Rosen and Weil (1995)
original study and the Self and Aquilina (2013) study with the results from this study
to discover the main aspects if stress is increasing among employees and to help
identify how to avoid the stress creators in corporations and organizations. The
questionnaire contains 40 questions. The first 20 questions are Rosen and Weil’s
GATCS followed with a set of 20 questions based on the other existing research
examined in the literature review. There were 114 online survey participants who
have completed the survey and 82 incomplete responses. According to Rosen and
Weil’s (1995) GATCS analysis procedure, if a participant left 4 items back, the
questionnaire must be discarded because it contains blank responses. To the study’s
goal was to obtain 100 -200 respondents, but many participants wished to not do the
survey or did not complete the whole questionnaire. The survey link reached more
than 300 people, but the number of participants who completed the questionnaire,
while lower, is still decent; 114 participants is a decent number and will give a clear
image of the stress levels in the workplace because the measurement will be relatively
the same whether the number responses are 100 or 500.
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4.2. Analysis and findings
4.2.1. Demographics
4.2.1.1. Responds by Gender
Figure 5 Responds by Gender
The research gender statistics showed there were slightly more male participants than
females. This shows almost a relatively equal response from both genders.
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4.2.1.2. Responds by Age Groups
Figure 6 Responds by Age
The 114 participants are divided into three age groups. Each group has participated
almost equally. A slight difference shows with the age group of 18 – 30 while the
other two groups seem to have equivalent participation, see Figure 6.
4.2.1.3. Responds by Country
Figure 7 Responds by Country
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Respondents came from more than one country, but the most participants were from
Qatar. UK participants in this study came in as the second largest group. About 9% of
participants were divided between Gulf States, such as UAE and Bahrain. Also, some
respondents came from the US and other European countries. The 63% of respondents
in Qatar includes 36% Qatari teachers, 32% of British teachers who work in English
schools in Qatar, 12% Canadian college instructors, and 20% Qataris who work in the
IT field. This spread of participants was aimed to collect a variety of data in order to
see where the stress levels are going in 2014, see Figure 7.
4.3. The Findings of This Study:
4.3.1. GATCS Score:
In this section, the responses to GATCS questions in the survey will be analysed and
shown in demographic forms in order to identify the stress levels among participants
when interacting with computers. Answers from all 114 participants are categorised
under three labels: No Technophobia, Low Technophobia, and Moderate/High
Technophobia.
No Technophobia: User is completely comfortable using computers and
technology.
Low Technophobia: User might have some slight issues when interacting with
computers and technology.
Moderate/High Technophobia: User suffers from medium to high stress levels
and anxiety when interacting with computers and technology.
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Figure 8 GATCS Results
Figure 9 GATCS Results
The scores of GATCS questionnaire are showing results that 59% of respondents
suffer from a degree of stress and TechnoStress while interacting with computers and
technology. Most participants in this study showed low TechnoStress levels when
interacting with computers. Also, some participants do not have any TechnoStress
when using computers. On the other hand, a slight layer of participants seems to have
medium to high TechnoStress levels when interacting with computers and technology.
See Figures 8 and 9.
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4.3.2. GATCS Score According to Gender
Figure 10 GATCS Score According to Gender
TechnoStress levels, according to the gender of participants, are showing slightly
varied results. Females seem to have slightly more TechnoStress levels than males
with a small difference between two ages of group, see Figure 10.
4.3.3. GATCS Score according to age group
Figure 11 GATCS Score According to Age
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Analysing the GATCS questionnaire according to age groups shows a slight
difference with TechnoStress levels among each age group. All age groups seems to
have low TechnoPhobia levels as most scored as having low TechnoStress and then
followed by no TechnoStress as the second highest result. On the other hand,
medium/high TechnoStress seems to get little higher with each age group, meaning
the older the participants, the more likely they were to have a higher incidence of
TechnoStress, see Figure 11.
4.3.4. GATCS Score According to Country
Figure 12 GATCS Score According to Country
Participants from Qatar are mostly teachers. Some of them are Qatari citizens, and
some of them are Western teachers who work in English schools and universities in
Qatar. The demographic picture shows a slight difference between each group, see
Figure 12.
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Figure 13 GATCS Respondents From UK
Respondents from the UK were mostly students at the University of Derby who study
in computing and business programs, see Figure 13.
Figure 14 GATCS Respondents From Other Countries
A few respondents came from a variety of countries, such as the United States of
America, United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and Spain, see Figure 14.
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4.3.5. Research Designed questionnaire Results
Figure 15 Research designed questions results
A set of 20 questions were designed based on the main points in the literature review
to identify stress levels in the workplace and to see whether information overload and
technology invasion are the main reasons for high stress levels in work environments.
Results showed that 96% of participants suffers from a degree of TechnoStress.
4.3.6. GATCS Against Research Questions
Figure 16 GATCS Against Research Questions
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Comparing the findings from GATCS and the research questions has showed
dramatic differences between the two different scales. 59% of GATCS results showed
that participants suffers from a degree of TechnoStress while research questions have
showed that 96% of participants suffers from a degree of stress when interact with
modern technology.
4.3.7. Questions Results Linked With Literature Review
Figure 17 Smartphones need to be with you all the time
For the question of how often do you need your smartphone or device to be with you,
82% of participants showed that they cannot go anywhere or do anything without
having their smartphones, while only 8% disagreed. This result supports that people
will get terrorised and worried when they forget their phones and will prefer to go
back home to get the phones even though they might be late for a meeting or for
work. People will start to think about and worry over missing an important call from
family or work (Aquilina, 2011).
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Figure 18 Smartphones for most users is more than what they truly need
63% of participants agreed that smartphones contain more features than the average
person needs, and 18% disagreed with this question. The results confirm what
researchers came up with earlier about how smartphones contain more information
than needed, creating overload. Smartphones contain super features that do not appear
in the human mind (Hanson, 2011). They operate as phones, audio and video players,
cameras, voice recorders, portable computers, and universal TV remote controls.
Complexity came as a result of smartphones because they are no longer just phones;
they have incredible computing abilities (Rosenwald, 2014).
Figure 19 Check your smartphone before you sleep and as soon as you wake up
86% of participants are obsessed with checking their smartphones before they go to
bed and as soon as they wake up. Only 3% seem to be careless about their
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smartphones. The results aim to the points of information overload and health issues
of the psychological and physical aspects that are at risk because of smartphones. The
study by Health Harvard shows the negative aspects of the blue light that comes from
smartphones and how it affects the sleep system and can lead to insomnia and
sleeping disorders (Health Harvard, 2012). When the human body interacts with blue
light before going to bed, the levels of melatonin increase and drop causing deferred
and weak sleep (Health Harvard, 2012). Smart devices allow users to navigate and
receive emails and become involved in social media platforms pretty much around the
clock (Rosen, 2011). Therefore, there is an obsession created as a result of that
technology.
Figure 20 Check your email before bed
42% of participants check their emails before they go to bed, while about 23% do not.
This shows that most people seem to prefer to check their emails before bed
regardless of whether they are tired or it is late. This shows that most people cannot
get away from the work environment even if they are not there; they still have some
obsession to check their emails (Newman, 2002). This obsession has serious health
consequences and is considered one of the deadly email sins according to the British
Psychological Society (Russell, 2014).
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Figure 21 Obsession of emailing even with the company of others
43% participants are obsessed with emailing even in the company of others. 21% of
the participants are not obsessed. This goes under the phenomenon that is called
absent presence, which is a physical presence and mental absence (Russell, 2014).
The obsession of emailing even when in the company of others is also one of the
seven deadly email sins according to the British Psychological Society (Russell,
2014).
Figure 22 Receive and respond to emails out of working hours
56% of participants respond to emails outside of working hours, while only 23% do
not. Heart problems increased because of technology overload and the attachment to
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computers and smart devices in order to check emails 24/7, according to an American
University in California (NewsComAu, 2013).
Figure 23 It is better to shut down your smartphone while on vacation
50% of respondents prefer to shut down their smartphones on vacation while about
35% disagrees with that idea. People in the old days only made phone calls during
working hours or sometimes at home; they did not carry phones and computers with
them all the time (Rosen, 2011). Today, that has changed, and most people with
smartphones carry the phones with them and make calls from everywhere, even on
vacation.
Figure 24 Faster computers and smartphones are what people look for
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70% of respondents agree that people are looking for faster computers, while only 6%
disagree. The truth is that faster computers are something delivered by manufacturers,
and programmers use the speed as it is delivered or becomes available just because it
is there, not necessarily because they actually need it. People are not aware that this
invention is something made by manufacturers to make profit. Many people do not
know or not aware that they suffer from TechnoStress, but this kind of constant
changings and inventions increases stress levels.
Figure 25 It is difficult to ignore work related emails and calls even during vacation
43% of participants agree with that question, while only 30% of them disagree. It is
true that there is congestion created by technology. Smart devices allow users to
navigate and receive emails and use social media even when people are on vacations
and annual leaves (Rosen, 2011). In the past when the internet connection was poor,
people infrequently checked their emails one time per day. However, now with
modern technology, internet connections are much faster, cheaper, and accessible
through smartphones and smart devices (Russell, 2014).
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Figure 26 Smartphones engaged people into unyielding form of communication
Most participants thinks that smart phones are useless at some point. There is no
much productivity from the communication outputs from the smartphones (Ayyagari,
2012).
Figure 27 Technology and communication tools are supposed to make life simpler and
easier
82% of the respondents indicate the fact that technology is supposed to make life
easier. However, people might not be aware that technology is taking us the other way
and making things more complex instead of simpler. Technology has two different
faces (NewsComAu, 2013).
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Figure 28 Our weekend contain a massive load of information than average
57% of the respondents agree that our weekends have huge technology and
information overload. Only 11% think that it is normal. People back in the 17th
century did not have 5% of what we experience in information overload in modern
times (Newman, 2002).
Figure 29 Stress among the employees in the work environment result with poor job
quality and less productivity
66% of respondents agree that stress in workplace results in poor job quality and
outcomes, while only 7% of respondents disagree with this question. The results
support what Professor Paula Brough, a lecturer in psychology at Griffith University
Australia, said, that TechnoPhobia is a technology-related stress that is increasing
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among employers and the workforce, which results in poor job quality and less
productivity (NewsComAu, 2013). The outcomes of organizations are clearly
influenced by ICT (Ragu-Nathan and Tarafdar et al., 2008, pp. 417-433).
Figure 30 Many work related tasks surpass the employee’s computer skills
62% of participants agree that some computer tasks are difficult or unclear to most
employees, and only 4% disagree. It is true that the feelings of disappointment will
occur when the person’s ability do not match the demand in the workplace (Ayyagari,
2012).
Figure 31 Computers and internet is a big disability of human functionality
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54% agreed that computers and internet are a big disability of human functionality,
while only 12% disagreed. This shows that even though most people might enjoy the
features of technology and internet, they still are not completely satisfied of where
technology is taking us. It is clear that there is a part inside most people that misses
the old simple life with no complexity and information overload. The dean of the
School of Communications and Information Systems at Robert Morris College in
Illinois, Frederick Kohun, was totally right when he indicated that the technology of
computers and the internet is a big disability of human functionality (Newman, 2002).
Figure 32 As soon as people get used to technology new related technologies and updates
will come in a short period of time
79% of participants agree that the invention and constant change of technology are
hard to keep up with. The quick and fast changes in technology are confusing people.
As soon as people feel comfortable with a technology, new updates are developed.
This creates disturbing feelings for most users (Wang and Shu et al., 2008, pp. 3002-
3013). This constant change and invention with technology makes it almost
impossible for users to keep pace (Rosenwald, 2014).
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Figure 33 Computers allow employees to work simply from anywhere
82% of respondents agree that the modern technological revolution allows people and
employees to work anytime and anywhere. Smartphones and devices allow people to
have full computer features within their hands; therefore, they can work even outside
of the working hours (Rosen, 2011). In the past, an internet connection was rare, and
people didn’t have a chance to check emails repeatedly. Now all computing abilities
exist easily with powerful features and cheap prices (Russell, 2014).
Figure 34 Employees are trapped and forced to complete work tasks even outside the
working hours
58% of participants feel that, because of technology, they are trapped with work even
out of the office, while only 16% seem to disagree. That employees feel trapped and
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forced to complete the tasks is an invasion that creates confusion, overload, and
anxiety in the work- life balance, leading the employer with no time to think in
sustainable and creative analytic aspects (Tarafdar and Tu et al., 2011, pp. 113-120)
Our personal behaviours are changing, and we are influenced by our job changes
because of ICT (Ragu-Nathan and Tarafdar et al., 2008, pp. 417-433).
Figure 35 Managers need to seek employee’s satisfaction within the use of technology to
have a normal work life balance
75% of the respondents agree that managers need to care more about employee
satisfaction in the work place. Back in the 1970s and the 1980s, employers did not
rely on the employees to make decisions and suggestions. This shows that managers
need to be more careful and seek employee satisfaction and involve them in decision
making (Tiemo and Ofua, 2010, pp. 713-720). Corporations are careless and are
focused only on pleasing the users in man y cases (Self and Aquilina, 2013, pp. 117-
127). This creates an unstable and stressful work-life balance. As a result,
organizations will not achieve the intended goals; therefore, the outcomes will reduce,
and eventually the benefits will not be as expected (Self and Aquilina, 2013, pp. 117-
127).
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Figure 36 Technology creates a huge liability and challenges among corporates and
organizations
63% of participants agree that technology is a liability for most corporations and
organizations, and only 6% disagree. The results supports that TechnoStress creates a
huge liability and challenge among corporations and organizations all over the globe
(Self and Aquilina, 2013, pp. 117-127). A research survey conducted among
managers to sense their feelings about coping with technology in the work
environment showed that 75% of the managers find that technology is increasing
stress levels in the workplace (Wang and Shu et al., 2008, pp. 3002-3013).
Responsibility for computer use itself creates anxiety and rising stress levels (Rosen
and Weil, 1995, pp. 9-31).
4.3.8. Key Findings
4.3.8.1. GATCS
From all participants 59% suffers from some degree of TechnoStress at any
level according to GATCS measurement.
Out of the 59% participants who suffers from a degree of TechnoStress, 54%
suffers from low TechnoStress levels and 5% suffers from moderate/high
TechnoStress.
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Out of the 59% who suffers from a degree of TechnoStress 32% are males,
and 27% are females
55% of all male responds suffers from a degree of TechnoStress.
59% of females responds suffers from a degree of TechnoStress.
57% of the age group between 18 – 30 suffers from a degree of TechnoStress.
61% of the age group between 30 – 45 suffers from a degree of TechnoStress.
63% of Age group between 45 – 70 suffers from a degree of TechnoStress.
The levels of TechnoStress slightly increased with each group of age.
58% of the responds from Qatari teachers suffers from a degree of
TechnoStress.
56% of the responds from British teachers who work in Qatar suffers from a
degree of TechnoStress.
58% of the responds from Canadian teachers who work in Qatar suffers from a
degree of TechnoStress.
54% of the responds from Qatari IT employees suffers from a degree of
TechnoStress.
In terms of nationality’s TechnoStress levels slightly varied between teachers
from different nationalities who work in Qatar.
55% of IT and business students from the University of Derby suffers from a
degree of TechnoStress.
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4.3.8.2. Research Questions
According to research designed questions 96% of participants suffers from a
degree of TechnoStress.
86% suffers from Moderate/High TechnoStress levels, while 10% suffers from
low TechnoStress levels and only 4% of participants do not have TechnoStress
Between GATCS score and research questions score there is big difference
because modern technology plays the most significant role in the increase of
TechnoStress levels.
Smartphones is a main reasons of the increment of technology stress levels,
they are much than the need of the average person.
Smartphones have a massive computing abilities.
Even though most users are enjoying the new modern technology there is a
part inside each individual to have the old simple life.
Emails obsession and engagement plays a significant role in increasing the
stress levels in work environment.
Responds supports that technology invasion trapped employees and forced
them to work anywhere and anytime.
Information overload is one of the main reasons of the increasing stress levels
in the work place.
Workers cannot ignore the work related materials even out of the working
hours.
Smartphones engaged people into unyielding type of communication.
Stress in the work place results with low quality work outcomes.
People cannot keep up with the constant change and invention.
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Managers are supposed to make sure users are comfortable with technologies
in the work place.
Mangers are carless about user’s satisfaction within the work environment.
Technology is a huge liability among corporates and organizations.
4.4. Conclusions
This section of the research is aimed at exploring the findings and analysis obtained
from the survey. It is clear that most participants suffer from some degree of stress
when interacting with technology. Comparison in terms of gender, age group, country
and nationality has been made in order to see stress differences between each
category. Demographics are used to clarify and analyse the survey results among the
114 participants. The findings and analysis of the survey results show that the work-
life balance is threatened with the stress and anxiety created by computers and
technology and increasing TechnoStress in the workplace. The conclusions out of this
section show sustained, higher and continuous increases in the levels of TechnoStress
since Rosen and Weil’s (1995) original study.
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5. Discussion
5.1. Introduction
With the revolution of technology, the constant changes and inventions created
complexity and overload. Even though it might come to mind that people have
become familiarized with technology in our recent days, think they should be relaxed
with technology, but this is not what is going on in many cases. With each study made
to discover ICT-related stress in work environments the numbers are going up. This
study included 114 participant sand examined how they feel about technology in the
work environment. Results are showing a sustained and high level of stress when
interacting with ICT. Since the original study 19 years ago made by Rosen and Weil
(1995), the levels of TechnoPhobia and TechnoStress have increased significantly.
This section of the study will discuss the results for the recent study and what the
difference between the results of this study and earlier studies are to try and find
remedial actions in order to overcome the phenomenon in the workplace to create a
normal work-life balance.
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5.2. Comparing TechnoStress Levels from Rosen and
Weil 1995 until the Present Study:
Figure 37 Comparison Between Different Studies
The original study, which was conducted in 1995 by Rosen and Weil, resulted in
lower TechnoStress levels than the earlier studies. It is clear that the numbers are
going up in each study, showing more stress levels when interacting with computers
and technology in the workplace. The study conducted by Self and Aquilina in 2013
showed fewer people with no TechnoStress and more people suffering from some
degree of TechnoStress. The present study shows similar results to Self and
Aquilina’s 2013 findings. However, this study showed more people suffering from a
degree of TechnoStress. This means that people might not be completely
TechnoStressed, but they seem to have some sort of stress and fear when using
computers.
The original study by Rosen and Weil (1995) showed that 36% of participants suffer
from a degree of TechnoStress. Back then, with the lack of technology awareness, it
was not something unusual. The study by Self and Aquilina in 2013 shows that 58%
of participants suffer from a degree of TechnoPhobia. It is clear that the levels of
TechnoPhobia and TechnoStress have increased over the 18 years between the studies
by Rosen and Weil (1995) and Self and Aquilina (2013). The differences between
those two studies show a 22% increase of stress levels in workplace. However, the
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present study shows that 59% of participants suffer from some degree of
TechnoStress. The findings from this study show similar results to Self and Aquilina’s
2013 study. The stress levels have increased 23% since the Rosen and Weil (1995)
study and 1% since the Self and Aquilina (2013) study. The results indicate that the
levels of TechnoStress are not going down. They have been sustained and have risen
since 19 years ago, and they are going up year by year with every study.
5.3. Present Study Discussion
The analysis and findings from this study showed a sustained and high level of
TechnoStress. Since 19 years ago, when the original study by Rosen and Weil (1995)
was conducted, the stress levels when interacting with technology in the workplace
have not decreased at all. Instead, stress levels have increased significantly, and the
new technology generation still suffers from a degree of TechnoStress even with the
familiarization and awareness that has increased with each generation. The problem is
that most people do not really know that they suffer from a degree of TechnoStress, or
even if they recognize it at some point, they refuse to admit it. It is important that
individuals accept that they have a problem in order to be able to get over it (Rosen
and Weil, 1995, pp. 9-31).
The present study has shown high stress levels in each aspect of the analysis. In terms
of gender, 55% of all male participants suffer from TechnoStress, and 59% of female
participants have a degree of stress levels when interacting with technology in the
workplace. Females seem to suffer from more stress when interacting with technology
in the workplace.
According to the age groups, results varied between each group: 57% of the age group
between 18 and 30 suffers from stress when interacting with technology, 61% of the
age group between 30 and 45 suffers from a degree of stress, and 63% of the age
group between 45 and 70 suffers from a degree of TechnoStress. The levels of stress
are increasing with each age group.
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In terms of country, respondents from Qatar included many workers from multiple
regions who mostly work in education, IT, and business fields. The results show that
58% of the respondents from Qatari teachers suffer from a degree of TechnoStress.
The results also show that 56% of the respondents from British teachers who work in
Qatar suffer from a degree of TechnoStress; 58% of the respondents from Canadian
teachers who work in Qatar suffer from a degree of TechnoStress; and 54% of the
respondents from Qatari IT employees suffer from a degree of TechnoStress. The
results from all participants from Qatar are slightly different between each age group.
Respondents from the UK among several IT and business students at the University of
Derby showed that 55% of participating students suffer from a degree of
TechnoStress.
5.3.1. The Modern Technology and TechnoStress
It is not weird or unexpected that even with the knowledge and familiarization of
technology that the new generation suffers from high stress levels when interacting
with technology in workplace. The situation is like a mathematical equation; it is not
possible to process data when there is a problem in the scale or equation. What is
meant to be important out of this is how do we expect that the levels of TechnoPhobia
and TechnoStress to go down while the technology is changing constantly with the
inventions and constant changes with new updates, devices, and smartphones, etc. that
are used as computers, universal TV remote controls, cameras, GPS devices, etc. The
list goes on and on. It is completely expected that the stress levels are increasing while
interacting with technology because of the invasion, invention, overload, complexity,
security, and multitasking that takes place with technology.
The set of 23 questions used in this study were designed based on the research
purposes revealed and raised many important points. The results of those questions
show that the new modern technology is the main reason that stress levels are
sustaining and increasing while individuals interact with the technology in the
workplace.
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5.3.2. Smartphones and TechnoStress
Results from the survey show that smartphones are a main reason for the increase of
stress levels among individuals on the work-life and personal-life aspects. Most
individuals are terrorized and worried when they forget their phones and will prefer to
go back home to get their phones even if they might be late for a meeting or for work.
People will start to think what if I will receive important call from family or work
(Aquilina, 2011). Most participants think that smartphones are useless at some point
even if they like them at other times. With so many features that are not needed, it just
makes it complicated to use the smartphones; there is not much productivity from the
communication outputs from smartphones (Ayyagari, 2012).
The results also indicated that smartphones contains more overload than needed. They
contain features that do not come in handy or even cross the users’ minds (Hanson,
2011). They operate as phones, audio and video players, cameras, voice recorders,
portable computers, and much more. Complexity came as a result of smartphones
because they are no longer just phones; they have incredible computing abilities
(Rosenwald, 2014).
The obsession of playing on and checking smartphones is also major contributing
factor to the rise of stress levels when using technology in the workplace. Most people
cannot go to sleep without checking their smart devices, and many people also do so
as soon as they wake up. The results are aimed at the points found from the study by
Harvard Health about how bad the blue light that comes from smartphones is and how
it affects the sleep system, which leads to insomnia and sleeping disorders (Health
Harvard, 2012). When the human body interacts with the blue light before users go to
bed, users’ melatonin levels increase and drop, and this causes deferred or little sleep
(Health Harvard, 2012). This obsession with smartphones follows the user into the
workplace because individuals cannot give up their smartphones. They check their
smartphones during a job task while they already are drowning in overload and
multitasking.
Not only that, but smartphones also make every individual so reachable even outside
of the working hours and during vacations. People in the past only made phone calls
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during working hours or sometimes at home; they did not carry phones and computers
with them all the time (Rosen, 2011). About half of the participants in the survey
think it is better to shut down their smart devices while on vacation, but do they really
do that? Most people are afraid that they will lose an opportunity or something might
happen if they turn off their smartphones. Smart devices allow users to navigate and
receive emails and to be involved in social media even when employees and people
are on vacations and annual leaves (Rosen, 2011). In the old days, internet
connections were poor, so people rarely checked their emails. Many only checked
email one time per day. However, now with modern technology, internet connections
are much faster, cheaper, and accessible through smartphones and devices (Russell,
2014).
5.3.3. Information Overload and TechnoStress
The results showed that most people believe that technology is supposed to make life
easier, but people might not be aware that technology is taking them to dark,
complicated places that make life complex instead of simple (NewsComAu, 2013).
With the information overload that our weekends contain, it is expected that higher
stress levels will be seen with every subsequent study even if individuals have
technology awareness. Back in the 17th century, people did not have 5% of what we
experience in information overload in modern times (Newman, 2002).
5.3.4. Email Overload and TechnoStress
From the results out of the survey, email obsession seems to be one main reason that
stress levels are increasing in the workplace. Investigations showed that email activity
is one of the main causes of stress (Russell, 2014). Results show that people prefer to
check their emails before bed regardless of whether they are tired or whether it is late.
This shows that most people cannot get away from the work environment because,
even if they are not there, they still have some obsession to check their emails
(Newman, 2002). Also, participants were more likely to respond immediately to
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emails. This habit is categorised as one of the seven deadly email sins according to the
British Psychological Society (Russell, 2014). This obsession among employees and
workers to check their emails leads to serious consequences and mental illness
according to Kingston Business School of Research. Not only that, but people also
seem to be obsessed in emailing even while they are in the company of others. This is
called the absence present, which means even if the individual is present with his
body, he is absent with his mind (Russell, 2014). This obsession falls under the seven
deadly email sins according to the British Psychological Society as well (Russell,
2014).
The respondents’ tendency to email outside of the working hours is something most
people do; this is what the survey has shown. This obsession has several serious
consequences, such as heart problems, according to an American University in
California (NewsComAu, 2013). While most workers are suffering from email
overload, social media also comes in beside email to make the congestion more
complicated. Most participants check their social media pages during a job task; as a
result, high stress levels, poor job quality, and serious illness will attack individuals.
This will then affect outcomes for corporations and organizations.
5.3.5. Constant Change and TechnoStress
Technology is the main cause of TechnoStress; the constant changes and inventions
that come with technology make it almost impossible for users to keep up
(Rosenwald, 2014). Results show that the constant inventions of technology are hard
to keep up with for most users. Changes are fast, quick; therefore, confusion comes as
a result. It does not take that much of time when you get used to a certain technology
before a set of new things will be available within a very short time.
The fact that manufacturers and programmers deliver faster computers influences
people to believe that this is what they truly need—faster and newer devices that have
super-computing abilities that are probably more than what they need. This level of
invention and constant changes increase stress levels.
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The results also showed that most people believe that the internet is a big disability of
human functionality. This proves that, even though users are enjoying the internet and
computing features, they suffer from that technology stress and unreliability. It is
clear that there is a part inside of most people that misses the old simple life with no
complexity and no technology overload.
Frederick Kohun, the dean of the School of Communications and Information
Systems at Robert Morris College in Illinois, said that computers and internet are a
big disability of human functionality (Newman, 2002), which is what most
participants in this study believed as well based on the survey results.
5.3.6. Work Life Balance and TechnoStress
The outcomes of organizations are clearly influenced by ICT (Ragu-Nathan and
Tarafdar et al., 2008, pp. 417-433). TechnoStress is something that has significant
consequences on corporations and organizations, which as a result, manipulates and
destroys the work-life balance, causing several issues, such as low outcomes and
management failures.
The results from this study show that users and workers feel that they are trapped
because of technology. This invasion creates feelings of being trapped and forced
workers to complete work-related tasks even when they are outside of the working
hours. This then leads to overload and anxiety in the work-life balance, which then
leads to serious consequences, such as no time to think sustainably, creatively, and
analytically (Tarafdar and Tu et al., 2011, pp. 113-120). Our personal behaviors are
changing and influenced by our job change because of ICT (Ragu-Nathan and
Tarafdar et al., 2008, pp. 417-433). Additonally, some work-related tasks are
surpassing the employees’ ability to process and work things out. Computer tasks are
difficult or unclear to most employees when this happens, and feelings of
disappointment and low self-esteem will be felt when the person’s ability cannot live
up to the demand in the workplace (Ayyagari, 2012).
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Stress in the workplace results in poor job quality and outcomes; Professor Paula
Brough, a lecturer in psychology at Griffith University Australia, said that
TechnoPhobia is a technology-related stress that is increasing among the employers
and workforce, which is resulting with poor job quality and less productivity. This is
what most participants agreed with as well.
Results showed that technology is a huge liability for most corporations and
organizations. This is because TechnoStress creates huge liability and challenges
among corporations and organizations all over the globe (Self and Aquilina, 2013, pp.
117-127). A research survey made among managers to sense their feelings about
coping with technology in work environments showed that 75% of the managers find
technology increasing the stress levels in the workplace (Wang and Shu et al., 2008,
pp. 3002-3013). Responsibility of computer use itself creates anxiety and raises stress
levels (Rosen and Weil, 1995, pp. 9-31).
The main issue here is that most managers do not truly care about the user need and
satisfaction within the work environment in order to make it a healthy environment,
so the productivity of the employees will be high and sufficient. The results showed
that managers need to care more about employee satisfaction in the workplace.
Corporations are careless, aiming more to please the users (Self and Aquilina, 2013,
pp. 117-127). Back in the 1970s and the 1980s, managers did not rely on the
employees to make decisions and suggestions. This shows that managers need to be
more careful and seek employee satisfaction (Tiemo and Ofua, 2010, pp. 713-720).
This creates unstable and stressful ‘work-life balance’. As a result, organizations will
not achieve the intended goals; therefore, the outcomes will reduce and eventually the
benefits will not be as expected (Self and Aquilina, 2013, pp. 117-127).
5.4. Conclusion
This study evaluated the levels of technology-related stress in the work environment.
People who work in the education, business, and IT fields were included in order to
identify the stress levels within gender differences, ages and regions. The results have
varies between genders, age groups, and countries. Females slightly suffer from
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higher stress levels than males when interacting with technology in the work place.
However, according to age groups, the stress levels seem to be spread more within the
older age groups even though there were not any dramatic differences found. Between
the participants from different countries, the measurement showed almost the same
results with a slight varied difference. It is obvious that the modern technology, such
as smartphones, has played a significant role in the high levels of TechnoPhobia and
TechnoStress. Users feel that they are trapped because of that overload and constant
level of invention. The findings from this study compared to previous studies, such as
Rosen and Weil (1995) and Self and Aqulia (2013) showed that stress levels are
getting higher with each study. More studies and comparison need to be done in order
to get a deep understanding of the phenomenon to make sure the awareness concept of
the phenomena is fully realized and managed in order for it to be rectified in the
future.
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6. Conclusions and Recommendations
6.1. Conclusions
This study successfully raised, evaluated, and discussed the main issues about
TechnoStress and how it could affect individuals within the work environment. Many
significant points have been noted and considered as the main reason for the sustained
and increasing stress levels when interacting with technology. Strategies within the
work environment and personal life of users need to be created. Despite the fact that
some people might think that work life and personal life are separated and different,
this is not true. They are linked together, and any failures and stress caused by ICT
within the work environment will have an effect on the personal life. Moreover, stress
created by technology within the aspect of personal life will extend to the work
environment.
6.1.1. Levels of TechnoStress
It is clearly obvious that TechnoStress levels have increased significantly as a result
of the constant fast growth in information technology over the years. The stress levels
remained at such a sustained level and grew since 19 years ago when Rosen and Weil
(1995) did the first study to measure and record TechnoPhobia and TechnoStress
levels. Over the 19 years since, several studies have investigated the reasons for stress
levels when interacting with ICT and why these levels are increasing. With each
study, the stress levels are either sustained or growing. Nevertheless, people today are
more familiarised and involved with technology than the original study. Despite this,
the stress levels are still increasing dramatically. This study showed a 23% rise of
stress levels with technology than the original study in (1995). This study aimed to
identify the reasons causing and increasing TechnoStress in order to find solutions
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available to corporations and organizations to reduce and eliminate stress levels from
technology in the workplace.
6.1.2. Study Results
Results from GATCS combined with a set of 20 questions especially designed for this
study showed that most people suffer from a level of stress and fear when using
technology. Between the original study by Rosen and Weil (1995) and the present
study, many aspects of technology have changed. Modern technology is so
sophisticated and hard to keep up with. Moreover, in the present day, all organizations
and corporations depend on technology in each aspect of the job process. It is
undeniable that technology has helped a lot in many different ways; it is true that
something things have been made easier and better with the existence of computers.
However, the new modern technologies, in many situations, are more than what the
user needs. Complexity, overload, invasion, and constant change have made users so
stressed and engaged in unyielding forms of communication. Even though people
become familiarised with technology, it is impossible to keep up with that level and
frequency of change and invention. Smartphones are a very good example of modern
technology as most smartphones contain more than what people truly need. Most
users are aware of that, but they cannot give up the new smart technology. People are
not able to take a step ahead without their smartphones; they will get panicked and
fearful if they leave home without their smartphones. As a result of the modern
technology and the perceived need for it, users are trapped in a stressful circulation
period that seems as if it will never end. Users are so reachable every day of the week,
24 hours a day for the whole year. Even outside of the work environment, the stress is
a nightmare that follows users everywhere because of the modern technology.
6.1.3. Work Life Balance
The work-life balance is directly affected because of ICT. When the consequences of
technology reach the work environment, it creates a huge liability on the organization.
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The carelessness and ignorance from corporations and organizations and their
managers have played a significant role in the increase of stress levels within the work
environment, creating several issues on the physical and psychological aspects of life.
Technology-related stress can lead to serious illness in the human body and in the
social personal life of individuals. This can then reach family life. Unfortunately,
most users do not really know that they are suffering from TechnoStress, and even if
they knew, many will refuse to admit that (Rosen and Weil, 1995, pp. 9-31).
Therefore, corporations and organizations need to seek user satisfaction and make
them comfortable within the work environment in order to be successful and not
suffer from poor outcomes as a result of TechnoStress.
6.2. Recommendations
6.2.1. Recommendations within the work environment
6.2.1.1. Proper training strategy
A proper training strategy ensures that users get familiar and accept the technology
within the work environment. The technology needs to be introduced in a granular
way that will result in better acceptance and will change the concept of complexity.
6.2.1.2. Introduce new technologies gradually
through sufficient strategies
The invention and constant technological changes need to be introduced gradually to
users through a sufficient strategy. The pressure and the fear of new technology needs
smart steps by organizations to make users feel happy instead of frustrate and accept
the change as a normal procedure. Organizations need to interview or create a survey
about new technologies that will be introduced and seek feedback from users to see
what the influences are of such a change. Also, early awareness of the new introduced
technology through lectures, posters, and social media will play a significant role in
decreasing stress levels for most users when introduced to new technology.
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6.2.1.3. Information overload control
Information overload should be reduced by web, email, and social media control.
Also work should be appropriately divided among employees and should not overload
any user with extra work or multitasking requirements. If the job needs more time and
work than a normal user can handle by himself, then new employment needs to be
considered in order to reduce stress levels on the user, which might seem like a
liability for the organization, but loading users with too-heavy workloads will create
more serious liability among the organizations by reducing the productivity, which
leads to poor performance and failures on the organizational outcomes.
6.2.1.4. Standardization policies
Standardized policies should be created to ensure the usage of technology is very
clear within the work environment.
6.2.1.5. Reliability
Reliability within the hardware and software within the organization is necessary in
order to make users feel comfortable with technology.
6.2.1.6. Leave space between work place and users
Unexpected user’s reaches outside of the working hours should be avoided unless
they have been informed of the necessity and expectations prior to that. This solution
will prevent users from techno invasion and will create free space for users so that
they will not feel trapped within the work environment.
6.2.1.7. Users Evaluation
An evaluation should be created for users, and the stress levels in the workplace
should be consistently measured. Most users seem to deny that they have stress when
interacting with technology. This is because of the fear of being replaced; therefore,
the organization needs to make it pleasant for users to admit that they have a problem
by providing free consultation and making it very confidential. Also, some
techniques, such as free coupons and gifts, can be very helpful. All of those steps will
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help to identify stressed users and ensure they are treated properly, which is a great
and valuable process for the organization itself and very beneficial to the user.
6.2.2. Recommendations within personal life
Users of ICT need to be more responsible when using technology. This is true even
on the personal life aspect. Individuals need to control their technology usage in order
to reduce stress levels when interacting with technology. This can be done through a
few steps:
6.2.2.1. Usage Limit
A personal usage limit and schedule of computers and smart devices should be
created to control the personal use of technology. Most people today overdose with
technology use, which leads to serious health issues and extends into the workplace.
Therefore, it is important to have self-control over the personal use of technology.
6.2.2.2. Avoid Blue light before sleep
Users should not interact with any blue light source before sleep within at least one
hour of bedtime in order to have normal sleep. Harvard Health proved that blue light
interaction creates sleeping disorders that can lead to insomnia, which raises the level
of TechnoStress.
6.2.2.3. Use what you need only
Users should avoid unreliable technologies and use only what is needed. Most modern
devices contain massive abilities that most users do not need. Curiosity sometimes
makes users play with computers and devices, wasting time trying to figure out what
that one application is or what that button does—this overload and complexity with
technology is something unnecessary. Therefore, users need to avoid that kind of
interaction and only use what they need carefully.
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6.2.2.4. Read more and be updated
Users should read more about technology with a minimum of 1 hour per week
dedicated to the task in order to stay updated with the latest technology trends. This
allows users to be aware of new inventions that might extend to the work
environment. This will help users a lot to be aware of what are new expected
technologies; therefore, they will have a general idea and background that will help
make an easier acceptance of new technologies and constant change.
6.2.2.5. Keep a space between technologies in
weekends and vacations
Users should keep a space between unnecessary technologies during weekends and
vacations. Since it is proven that our weekends contain massive overload levels, users
suffer from invasion and feel they are trapped within the workplace even outside of
the working hours. Therefore, it is important to find a space on the weekend in order
to have a healthy, fresh start at the beginning of the week.
6.2.2.6. Involvement in useful, healthy activates
Users should control the obsession of smartphones, iPads, emails, and social media by
involving themselves in several activities, such as sports, fishing, hiking, reading,
listening to music, live social events, and family reunions. This applies to the children
of users as we need to teach our children how to be involved in useful, healthy
activities, such as playing in the outdoors under sunlight and breathing fresh air.
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7. Personal Reflection
This study, which is called ‘What Lies Beneath TechnoStress’, is a very valuable
experience and lesson for me. As I complete my final year as an expected graduate
student of BSc of Information Technology, this kind of research is exactly what I
need. Instead of being interested in learning how to operate technology on hardware
and software aspects that have been covered in the early stages of my IT program, it is
more important for me to be aware of the consequences of technology, especially the
consequences that affect the business aspect of information technology.
This study totally demanded a large time slot out of my weekly schedule. I found
TechnoStress to be a very important issue that most people suffer from, and when I
started the research, with each point, I found that it made absolute sense to me and
raised several questions in my mind. As I moved forward with the research and
reached deeper into the study, I grew more engaged and hooked on the topic. I
dedicated my time and effort to this study because I believe it is something that
desperately needs to be investigated and solved.
This study encountered a number of phases, beginning with the literature review,
which is my favourite part out of this study because of the research and exposing
different studies and articles while learning new things that clarify the picture of this
issue for me. The literature review required heavy research and heavy reading. It was
very pleasant for me to spend time in the library reading books and surfing the Web
looking for answers and general information. The research in the literature review
looked into several previous academic studies and evaluated TechnoStress and how
modern technology is involved. Many interesting points came out as a result of the
investigation. The most valuable findings of the literature review turned into a
questionnaire to complement the Rosen and Weil GATCS questions to identify stress
levels within the use of ICT in the work environment.
After all the phases in the research have passed and the project if coming to a close, I
feel satisfied that this study was a success because of the effort I put into the research.
In addition, my supervisor was always there for me and explained and cleared up all
the misunderstood points within the research. The perfect supervision made is
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possible for me to sail efficiently and professionally within the huge ocean of research
where all the granular aspects need to be organized and made clear.
7.1. Lessons Learned
I consider this study as a valuable experience for me on several aspects. I gained new
research skills and was prepared for the true work life. Additionally, time
management and new communication skills have been gained throughout the study.
This study made me work carefully through the research phases while critically
analysed and justified ideas, research claims, and statements. It taught me to be
patient and smart. It taught me to extract valuable information of the aimed case.
After all of this, I am proud of what I emerged with at the end of the journey this
study began. I could not have asked for a greater opportunity or better learning
experience as a graduate student.
7.2. Research Carry on point
This study has raised several issues and points, and the most important of those are
the role of modern ICT in the rise of TechnoStress. It is clear that familiarization is
not enough for users to keep up with massive technological change. Smartphones and
smart tablets are increasing our stress levels, and these levels become a shadow that
follows users into the work place. This study found that new modern technologies,
especially smartphones, need to be studied more deeply. I recommend researchers
focus on the modern technology aspect deeply because it is playing a major role in the
high stress levels in our recent history and will continue to do so. It is totally expected
that with those modern technologies, stress levels are going up since the original study
in 1995 by Rosen and Weil. Future studies need to be more focused and dedicated of
the modernity aspect of technology because as times move, new technology trends are
released constantly in a short period of time. Therefore, investigations need to heavily
focus on this modern aspect of technology.
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9. Appendices
9.1. Research Questions
1. Smartphones need to be with you all the time.
2. Smartphones for most users are more than what they truly need.
3. Check your smartphone before you sleep and as soon as you wake up.
4. Check your email before bed.
5. Obsession of emailing even in company of others.
6. Receive and respond to emails outside of the working hours.
7. It is better to shut down your smartphone while in vacation.
8. Faster computers and smartphones are what people look for.
9. It is difficult to ignore work related emails and calls even during vacation.
10. Smartphones engaged people into unyielding form of communication.
11. Technology and communication tools are supposed to make life simpler and
easier.
12. Our weekends contain a massive load of information on average.
13. Stress among the employees in the work environment result in poor job quality
and less productivity.
14. Many work related tasks surpass the employee’s computer skills.
15. Computers and internet is a big disability of human functionality.
16. As soon as people get used to a technology, new related technologies and
updates will come in a short period of time.
17. Technology allows employees to work simply from anywhere.
18. Employees are trapped and forced to complete work tasks even outside of
working hours.
19. Managers need to seek employee satisfaction within the use of technology to
have a normal work life balance.
20. Technology creates a huge liability and challenge among corporations and
organizations
