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A Cognitive Paradigm to Investigate Interference in Working Memory by Distractions and Interruptions
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Development and validation of the Workplace Interruptions Measure.

Stacy M Wilkes1, Larissa K Barber1, Arielle P Rogers1

  • 1Department of Psychology, Northern Illinois University, DeKalb, IL, USA.

Stress and Health : Journal of the International Society for the Investigation of Stress
|June 23, 2017
PubMed
Summary

Researchers developed the Workplace Interruptions Measure (WIM) to assess different types of workplace interruptions. Findings show these interruptions, both effort- and recovery-enhancing, link to employee stress and strain.

Keywords:
breaksdiscrepancy detectionsdistractionsemployee stressintrusionsworkplace interruptions

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Area of Science:

  • Psychology
  • Organizational Behavior
  • Occupational Health

Background:

  • Workplace interruptions are common but lack a comprehensive measurement tool.
  • Existing research often overlooks the diverse nature and impact of interruptions.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To develop and validate the first comprehensive, self-report measure of workplace interruptions.
  • To examine the relationship between different types of interruptions and employee stressors/strains.

Main Methods:

  • Development of the Workplace Interruptions Measure (WIM) based on a typology of intrusions, distractions, discrepancy detections, and breaks.
  • Validation of the 12-item WIM through three studies with diverse employee samples (N=317, N=160, N=323).
  • Psychometric evaluation of the WIM, including its association with other workplace stressors and strain outcomes.

Main Results:

  • The four-factor structure of interruptions (intrusions, distractions, discrepancy detections, breaks) was confirmed.
  • Both effort-enhancing (intrusions, distractions, discrepancy detections) and recovery-enhancing (breaks) interruptions were associated with stressors and strains.
  • Distractions, discrepancy detections, and breaks uniquely predicted strain outcomes, independent of other workplace stressors.

Conclusions:

  • The Workplace Interruptions Measure (WIM) provides a robust tool for assessing workplace interruptions.
  • Understanding different interruption types is crucial for addressing employee stress and strain in organizational settings.
  • The WIM has significant implications for future research and practical interventions concerning workplace interruptions.