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New Telework, Time Pressure, and Time Use Control in Everyday Life

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  • Eva Thulin

    (Unit for Human Geography, Department of Economy and Society, School of Business, Economics and Law, University of Gothenburg, SE-405 30 Gothenburg, Sweden)

  • Bertil Vilhelmson

    (Unit for Human Geography, Department of Economy and Society, School of Business, Economics and Law, University of Gothenburg, SE-405 30 Gothenburg, Sweden)

  • Martina Johansson

    (Unit for Human Geography, Department of Economy and Society, School of Business, Economics and Law, University of Gothenburg, SE-405 30 Gothenburg, Sweden)

Abstract

This study explores how changing conditions for home-based telework affect the quality of life and social sustainability of workers in terms of time pressure and time use control in everyday life. Changing conditions concern the spread of telework to new types of jobs of a more routine character, involving new practices of unregulated work and anytime smartphone access. Empirically, we draw on survey data from a sample of 456 home-based teleworkers employed by six governmental agencies in Sweden. Results indicate that subjective time pressure is not associated with job type in terms of distinguishing between bounded case work and more independent analytical work. Time pressure is intensified by family-related factors, telework performed outside of working hours, and part-time work, and is moderated by the private use of smartphones. We find no significant associations between subjective time use control, job qualifications, and teleworking practice. Family situation and having small children at home reduce time use control. Also, high levels of smartphone use for work-related purposes are associated with reduced control.

Suggested Citation

  • Eva Thulin & Bertil Vilhelmson & Martina Johansson, 2019. "New Telework, Time Pressure, and Time Use Control in Everyday Life," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 11(11), pages 1-17, May.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:11:y:2019:i:11:p:3067-:d:235862
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    References listed on IDEAS

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