research
Technostress: a consumer's perspective
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Abstract
Objectives:
Technostress is defined as a modern disease resulting from the inability to adapt, cope and interact with new technology. The aim of this research was to identify the possible effects of the rapid technological advancement and the exposure to new technologies on consumers in modern societies. It sought to understand the characteristics of the psychological experiences of individuals when interacting with technology.
Design:
A qualitative design was adopted, investigating in depth the explicit and implicit aspects of the effects of the human-technology interaction. The chosen approach allows for a deeper understanding of the thoughts and feelings that lie behind this relationship.
Method:
Online forums, discussion boards and comment sections extracted from five different websites under the public domain were analysed using Thematic Analysis.
Results:
Consumers acknowledge that the increased human-machine interaction enhances efficiency and convenience to complete necessary transactions such as online shopping and bank transactions. However, they want to have the choice to keep using traditional ways rather than be forced to use this newer method. Some feel vulnerable and avoid technology while others miss the social interaction. The main three negative emotions portrayed were frustration, anger and apprehension.
Conclusion
The study indicates that consumers encounter difficulties when interacting with new technologies on day to day tasks and these difficulties often translate into negative emotions, behaviours and attitudes towards technology. The findings indicate that innovation is not only a matter of production and consumption but acceptance and adaptation to technology should be further studied and addressed