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Related Experiment Videos

Autonomy Raises Productivity: An Experiment Measuring Neurophysiology.

Rebecca Johannsen1,2, Paul J Zak1,2

  • 1Claremont Graduate University, Claremont, CA, United States.

Frontiers in Psychology
|June 6, 2020
PubMed
Summary

Increased employee autonomy boosts productivity and positive mood, according to a neuroscience study. While autonomy improved performance, the exact brain mechanisms driving these benefits require further investigation.

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Area of Science:

  • Neuroscience
  • Organizational Psychology
  • Behavioral Economics

Background:

  • Employee autonomy in work arrangements (remote, virtual, travel) is increasing.
  • Previous research relied on self-reported data, potentially introducing bias.
  • Understanding the neurobiological underpinnings of autonomy's impact on work behavior is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the neurophysiological mechanisms by which increased autonomy affects individual and team performance.
  • To examine the impact of autonomy on employee mood.
  • To differentiate the effects of autonomy priming from general workflow management information.

Main Methods:

  • A neuroscience experiment involving 100 participants.
  • Participants viewed videos on either the productivity impact of autonomy or workflow software.
Keywords:
behaviordecision-makingexperimentintrinsic motivationorganizations

Related Experiment Videos

  • Electrodermal responses were measured to assess physiological effort, linked to productivity and mood.

    • Main Results:

    • The autonomy group showed 5.2% higher average productivity and 31% higher positive affect.
    • Physiological effort directly correlated with productivity in both groups.
    • Autonomy priming did not increase physiological effort but enhanced positive affect and productivity.

    Conclusions:

    • Increased perceived autonomy significantly enhances individual and group productivity and positively impacts mood.
    • Physiological effort is a key factor in productivity, irrespective of autonomy.
    • The precise neurological pathways linking autonomy to performance and mood require further research.