Abstract

This study is based on a systemic review of related literature on how remote working impacts Information Technology workers’ psychological wellbeing. Remote working is a unique working environment that limits social interactions and face-to-face communication. Therefore, there is a concern that it has the potential to create adverse psychological effects such as isolation and lack of belongingness. Conversely, it might also positively facilitate psychological wellbeing because of increased flexibility and more time to invest in one’s personal life. Significantly, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the prevalence of remote working has increased, and for Information Technology workers this has become a key component. Their jobs can be efficiently conducted in remote working settings. Although numerous studies focused on the general
wellbeing of remote workers, the psychological wellbeing of remotely working Information Technology workers has been
under-investigated. Examining this area would help recognise unique and challenging areas that Information Technology workers encounter in remote working environments and take the required measurements to address them. The objective of this study is to identify how remote working affects the Information Technology worker’s psychological wellbeing under remote working conditions. The study was conducted based on systematic analysis of 30 peer-reviewed journal articles
published in reputed journals.

The critical evaluation of the systematic literature review found that remote working resulted in feeling left out, overworking, and lacking work-life boundaries, which negatively impacted Information Technology remote workers’ psychological wellbeing. Also, this study uncovered that improved family relationships, less commute stress, and more time for leisure activities helped improve psychological wellbeing and happiness. These findings will contribute to understanding the nature of Information Technology remote workers’ psychological wellbeing and how psychological wellbeing practices of organisations can be embedded.

Keywords:
Remote work, Psychological wellbeing, Information Technology workers.

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