Technostresswhile

Technostresswhile is a coined term used to describe the psychological strain that results from sustained, often simultaneous, engagement with digital technologies and non-digital tasks. The concept extends technostress by highlighting the added burden of frequent task-switching, constant connectivity, and expectations of rapid responses across multiple devices and channels.

Causes of technostresswhile include information overload from alerts and emails, fragmented attention due to notifications, and pressure to multitask across platforms (phones, computers, wearables). Work and study environments that require rapid switching between digital tools and physical activities, as well as remote or hybrid setups, can intensify the experience. Cultural expectations of immediacy and availability contribute to sustained cognitive load and anxiety.

Symptoms commonly associated with technostresswhile are cognitive fatigue, irritability, headaches, sleep disturbance, and reduced concentration. Prolonged exposure can affect mood, decision-making, and overall productivity, potentially increasing burnout risk and impairing well-being.

Management strategies focus on reducing unnecessary digital load and improving boundaries. Practical steps include configuring notification controls, batching tasks to minimize switching, setting defined digital-free periods, and establishing clear expectations for response times. Training in digital literacy, ergonomic work arrangements, and organizational policies that promote wellbeing can also help.

Research status for technostresswhile is emergent. It draws on established work on technostress, cognitive load, and multitasking. Further empirical studies are needed to validate its prevalence, measurement, and effective interventions across occupations and settings.

See also: technostress, information overload, cognitive load, digital wellbeing, multitasking.