ONE SCREEN, TWO ROLES: DIGITAL FATIGUE IN THE ERA OF WORK FLEXIBILITY
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.36563/aefhc011Keywords:
digital fatigue, digital hyper-connectivity, role conflict, SmartPLS, work flexibilityAbstract
The rapid growth of digital technology and flexible working arrangements has significantly transformed modern work patterns. Employees are increasingly required to remain connected through digital platforms, creating challenges related to work-life balance and psychological well-being. This study aims to examine the influence of digital hyper-connectivity, role conflict, and work flexibility on digital fatigue and employee productivity/well-being. The study employed a quantitative research approach using Structural Equation Modeling–Partial Least Squares (SEM-PLS) with SmartPLS software for data analysis. Data were collected through an online questionnaire distributed to 107 respondents consisting of employees who actively use digital communication technologies in their work activities. The research instrument used a five-point Likert scale ranging from strongly disagree to strongly agree.
The findings indicate that digital hyper-connectivity has a significant positive effect on digital fatigue, suggesting that employees who continuously engage with digital communication systems tend to experience higher levels of exhaustion. Role conflict also contributes positively to digital fatigue, particularly when employees struggle to balance professional and personal responsibilities. In addition, work flexibility was found to increase digital fatigue due to irregular working hours and blurred boundaries between work and private life. Furthermore, digital fatigue significantly affects employee productivity and well-being, leading to reduced concentration, emotional exhaustion, and decreased work performance.
This study contributes to the understanding of digital work challenges in flexible working environments and provides practical implications for organizations in developing healthier digital communication policies and improving employee well-being in the digital era.
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