Date

5-1-2025

Department

School of Health Sciences

Degree

Doctor of Philosophy in Health Sciences (PhD)

Chair

Karen Parker Davidson

Keywords

Remote Work, Work-from-Home, Physical Health, Psychological Health, Social Well-being, Sedentary Behavior, Social Isolation

Disciplines

Life Sciences

Abstract

The purpose of this phenomenological study is to understand the effects of remote work on employees' physical, psychological, and social well-being. As remote work becomes more common, understanding its impact on health and productivity is essential. This study asks: How does remote work affect employees’ well-being across these dimensions?

Guided by the Job Demands-Resources (JD-R) model (Bakker & Demerouti, 2007), this study examines how remote work influences well-being through the balance of job demands (e.g., workload, isolation) and resources (e.g., autonomy, flexibility).

Using a mixed-methods approach, data were collected from 22 remote workers via surveys, semi-structured interviews, and observations. Survey responses were statistically analyzed for trends, while interviews and observations were thematically coded to identify key experiences and behavioral patterns. Findings reveal both benefits and challenges. While 70% of participants reported improved work-life balance and job satisfaction, many experienced physical discomfort from prolonged sitting, increased screen time, and reduced physical activity. Social isolation and blurred work-life boundaries also affected psychological well-being, with reports of both heightened stress and enhanced focus.

To mitigate these challenges, participants employed strategies such as ergonomic adjustments, physical activity, and virtual social engagement. However, persistent isolation and difficulty maintaining work-life balance highlight the need for organizational support, including ergonomic resources, wellness programs, and structured social interaction.

Future research should explore long-term impacts and strategies to sustain well-being in hybrid work environments.

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