What is it about?

Employees may strive to neutralise the negative consequences of technology-induced stress and feel justified considering that it is their right to engage in deviant behaviours, such as performing non-business activities. Therefore, the aim of this study is to explore the impact of technology-induced stress (techno-stress) on engaging in non-business online activities while at work (minor cyberslacking).

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Why is it important?

Cyberslacking is often treated as a productivity problem that should be controlled through strict monitoring or bans. This study shows that such behaviours may stem from deeper structural issues related to technology-driven work stress. By identifying techno-invasion as the key driver of cyberslacking, the study highlights the importance of work–life boundaries in digital work environments. The findings suggest that reducing constant connectivity and after-hours technological pressure may be more effective than punitive controls. This perspective helps organisations design more balanced ICT policies that address both employee well-being and performance.

Perspectives

In this study, I approached cyberslacking not simply as misbehaviour, but as a rationalised response to techno-stress. The results reinforced my view that digital work practices can create a cycle in which constant connectivity fuels stress, and stress, in turn, legitimises personal internet use at work. Understanding this cycle is crucial for moving beyond simplistic control-based solutions and towards more humane and sustainable technology management in organisations.

utku güğerçin
adana alparslan turkes science and technology university

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This page is a summary of: Does techno-stress justify cyberslacking? An empirical study based on the neutralisation theory, Behaviour and Information Technology, May 2019, Taylor & Francis,
DOI: 10.1080/0144929x.2019.1617350.
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