Technostress and Job Performance: Understanding the Negative Impacts and Strategic Responses in the Workplace

Abstract

This study delves into the increasingly pertinent issue of technostress in the workplace and its multifaceted impact on job performance. Technostress, emerging from the rapid integration of technology in professional settings, is identified as a significant stressor affecting employees across various industries. The research primarily focuses on the ways in which technostress influences job performance, both negatively and positively, depending on the context and individual coping mechanisms. Through a blend of qualitative and quantitative methodologies, including surveys and in-depth interviews, the study examines the experiences of employees from diverse sectors. It highlights how technostress manifests in different forms: from anxiety and frustration due to constant connectivity to the pressure of adapting to new technologies. The paper also explores the dual role of technology as both a facilitator and a hindrance in the workplace. Significant findings indicate that technostress adversely impacts job performance, leading to decreased productivity, diminished job satisfaction, and increased turnover intentions. However, the study also uncovers that strategic interventions, such as training programs, supportive leadership, and fostering a positive technological culture, can mitigate these negative effects. These interventions not only help in managing technostress but also in harnessing the potential of technology for enhanced job performance. Furthermore, the research proposes a model outlining the relationship between technostress, coping mechanisms, and job performance. This model serves as a framework for organizations to understand and address the challenges posed by technostress. The study concludes with recommendations for future research, particularly in exploring the long-term effects of technostress and the efficacy of various coping strategies.