Importance of positive emotions in software developers’ performance: a narrative review

Abstract Software development depends heavily on human efforts and collaborations, which are simultaneously influenced by human emotions, and it is considered among the most difficult tasks. Software developers are susceptible to various health concerns such as burnout, anxiety and depression due to the work nature and demands of the software industry, and this may have detrimental effects on their performance. However, evidence portray significant beneficial effects of positive emotions on well-being, growth, and success. Accordingly, this paper investigates the relevance of positive emotions among software developers and strives to understand how positive emotions benefit developers’ performance. It surveys literature that examine the importance of affect among developers and the benefits of positive emotions on human well-being and employs a narrative style to present these aspects. This review discusses the potential mechanisms that underlie the association between frequent experiences of positive emotions and improved performance and suggests that positive emotions benefit developers’ performance. This emotional awareness has the potential to enhance the developer efficacy, thus contributing to the discipline of ergonomics. Findings also have positive implications for organisational counsellors as they help in developing and maintaining a positive organisational climate.