Exploring the links between type and content of virtual background use during videoconferencing and videoconference...

Area of Science:

• Human-Computer Interaction
• Psychology
• Communication Studies

Background:

• The rise of remote work has increased reliance on videoconferencing tools.
• Videoconferencing fatigue (VF) is a growing concern impacting user well-being.
• Virtual backgrounds are commonly used features in videoconferencing platforms.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the influence of virtual background type and content on videoconference fatigue (VF).
• To explore the relationship between virtual background usage and user well-being.
• To apply the limited capacity model of motivated mediated message processing and impression management theory.

Main Methods:

• A survey was conducted with 610 users of videoconferencing tools.
• Data were collected on the types and content of virtual backgrounds used.
• Statistical analyses examined the relationship between virtual backgrounds, VF, and well-being.

Main Results:

• A significant relationship exists between virtual background use and videoconference fatigue (VF).
• The type of virtual background significantly affects the level of VF experienced.
• The content of virtual backgrounds also significantly impacts user fatigue levels.

Conclusions:

• Careful selection of virtual backgrounds can mitigate videoconference fatigue (VF).
• Optimizing virtual background choices can improve user well-being in remote work settings.
• Findings offer theoretical insights and practical recommendations for videoconferencing tool design and usage.