Techno stress: A study among academic and non academic staff

Abstract

In the 21st century, the technological momentum has increased far beyond our expectations. Thus, there is a growing perception that rapid advancements in technology are responsible for inducing stress into our lives. Reuters Business Information Services conducted a study of 1300 managers throughout United States, England, Australia, Hong Kong and Singapore, and found out that 33% reported ill-health as a result of information overload and 66% reported increased tension with work colleagues and diminished job satisfaction caused by information overload. The literature suggests that while new technologies may offer many benefits, they may also contribute to increased job stress and strain. Information overloads and multitasking, both associated with ICT (Paoli [1]), may create stress by contributing to work overload. The adoption, rapid diffusion and evolution of ICT have introduced a number of new demands into workplace that leads to job stress. Technology stress (Techno Stress) can be defined as a modern disease of adaptation caused by an inability to cope with new computer technologies in a healthy manner. Clear symptoms of Techno Stress include inability to concentrate on a single issue, increased irritability and feeling of loss of control. The study was conducted among academic and non academic staff in order to measure the level of their stress. Besides, it aims to identify the difference of stress level between academic and non academic staff, and the difference of gender in term of stress. Looking at the negative impact of ICT, this study is very important that enables the researcher to identify the stress related its usage. Furthermore, findings might be used to guide psychologist, counselor and other professional to outline strategic planning dealing with Techno Stress. 80 respondents from Pulau Pinang and Terengganu completed questionnaires comprises demographic section (8 items) and 47 items on Personnel Techno Stress Inventory (PTSI) previously used by Weil & Rosen [2] with reliability 0.71. Domains of Techno Stress can be classified as learning, border, communication, time, family, workplace and community. The instrument was revised, simplified and finalized according to the result of pilot test. The result reliability using Cronbach's reliability was 0.61. Result shows a moderate level of stress among the respondents. There is no significant difference of stress in term of gender and occupation (academic and non academic staff). Limitations of the study and suggestions for further research are discussed. © Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg 2007.