Dissertation presented as the partial requirement for obtaining a Master's degree in Information Management, specialization in Information Systems and Technologies ManagementWhile the use and implementation of Information Technology (IT) have been generally viewed as beneficial in the digital era, it is important to note that this is not always the case. While technology has enabled individuals to achieve unprecedented feats, it has also been the source of several societal challenges. Technology has increasingly become part of people's daily lives, particularly in the workplace. Thanks to advancements in digital technology and communication tools, employees now have the flexibility to work from any location and at any time. While remote work provides many benefits, there are also several downsides for employees. These may include limited opportunities for in-person communication and interaction, loneliness and isolation, the need to acquire necessary digital skills, and the challenge of separating work and home life. Some individuals may feel socially withdrawn when they are unable to satisfy their need for face-to-face communication and social connection. As a result, they may seek to fulfill this need through the Internet.
Therefore, this study aims to address the question "How does Internet addiction and social isolation impact the remote work performance and life satisfaction of an individual?". The purpose of this paper is to determine and analyze whether an individual's level of Internet addiction and social isolation influences their remote work performance as well as their life satisfaction. This model was empirically validated using structural equation modelling (SEM)/partial least squares (PLS) in the context of Internet addiction in remote work professionals, with the development of a questionnaire. From this survey, a total of 172 responses from remote workers were taken into consideration to empirically test the model. It was discovered that social isolation and remote work performance directly affect the life satisfaction of a worker and Internet addiction indirectly influences it. Age was also taken into consideration and considered impactful, due to its impact in social isolation and Internet addiction
