A New Exhaustion Emerged with COVID-19 and Digitalization: A Qualitative Study on Zoom Fatigue

Abstract

The study aimed to reveal the physical, mental, and emotional effects of Zoom fatigue and the behaviors of the participants during the use of the video conference programs. Zoom fatigue refers to the feeling of exhaustion associated with the use of videoconferencing. Bailenson (2021) states that the concept of 'Zoom Fatigue', is used for general evaluations of video conferencing. With the COVID-19, education activities started to be carried out through video conference programs. Therefore, it is important to examine Zoom fatigue in the education sector. The sample of the study consists of 51 participants. 30% of the participants are teachers and 70% of the participants are academic staff. The data were obtained through the semi-structured interview form. Qualitative research methods were preferred to evaluate and interpret subjective experiences, perceptions, and feelings of the participants. The data were analyzed by descriptive analysis technique. According to the results of the study, Zoom fatigue affects the physical and mental well-being of the users negatively. Zoom fatigue causes exhaustion, stress and increases the mental and cognitive load. Especially among women, mirror anxiety is experienced. The study will guide employees and organizations about struggling with Zoom fatigue. Also, the study will contribute to organizational behavior literature.