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Updated: Jul 17, 2026
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Using Rapid Serial Visual Presentation to Measure Set-Specific Capture, a Consequence of Distraction While Multitasking
Published on: August 29, 2018
Personal use of work computers: distraction versus destruction
Paul M Mastrangelo1, Wendi Everton, Jeffery A Jolton
1Genesee Survey Services, Rochester, New York 14623, USA. paul.mastrangelo@gensurvey.com
Summary
This study distinguishes between nonproductive and counterproductive computer use at work. Nonproductive use is more common in younger employees, while counterproductive use is linked to newer internet access and awareness of misuse warnings.
Area of Science:
- Workplace psychology
- Information technology management
- Organizational behavior
Background:
- Personal use of work computers is a prevalent issue in organizations.
- Understanding the nuances of nonproductive versus counterproductive computer use is crucial for effective policy development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To define and differentiate between nonproductive and counterproductive computer use.
- To investigate the frequencies and motivational factors behind personal computer use at work.
- To identify employee characteristics and contextual factors associated with each type of computer use.
Main Methods:
- An online survey was administered to 329 employees, assessing self-reported frequencies of 41 computer behaviors.
- Statistical analyses were performed to identify correlations between employee demographics, internet access, and types of computer use.
Main Results:
- Nonproductive Computer Use was more prevalent among younger employees, those with longer internet access duration, and faster work internet connections.
- Counterproductive Computer Use was associated with newer internet access and awareness of colleagues being warned about misuse.
- A significant overlap exists where employees engaging in counterproductive use also engage in nonproductive use, but not vice versa.
Conclusions:
- A clear distinction between nonproductive and counterproductive computer use is supported by the findings.
- Organizational policies and internet accessibility strategies should differentiate between these two types of computer use.
- Further research into the motivations and specific behaviors underlying each category is warranted.
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