The effects of telepressure on work-related well-being and the role of recovery experiences

Abstract

This cross-sectional study examined the relationship between telepressure and work-related well-being outcomes of work engagement and job burnout, moderated by recovery experiences. Telepressure is a relatively new concept within scientific research, which refers to the need to respond and the urge to reply quickly to incoming messages. In the current study the distinction was made between workplace and social telepressure. A survey was conducted among Dutch employed individuals between the ages of 20 and 30 (N = 133). The data was analyzed using a multiple linear regression and a bootstrap analysis for moderation effects. The findings showed that workplace and social telepressure correlate positively and that social telepressure was associated with a decrease in work engagement. Interaction effects were found between workplace telepressure and recovery experiences on work engagement, although in the opposite direction as was expected. No associations were found in the relationships between workplace and social telepressure and job burnout. The current study reflected on the possible influential effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on the data. This study adds to the limited body of knowledge on the topic of telepressure. Recommendations for future research and practical implications for organizations are discussed.