Working and Natural Environments As Factors to Prevent Professional Burnout (Using the Example of IT-Specialists)

Abstract

The article presents the results of a qualitative study of the impact of workplace parameters and interaction with the natural environment on the development of burnout of Russian IT specialists. We investigated environmental burnout factors specific to IT specialists, the nature of the influence of working and natural environment factors on the development of this phenomenon and their significant parameters. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 7 representatives of the IT sector from 25 to 32 years of age in various specializations. The method of interpretative phenomenological analysis by J. Smith was used for the analysis of the interviews. It has been found that working in the IT sector is associated with high risks of burnout due to industry-specific factors such as high demands, competition, deadline pressure, regular overwork, dependence on teamwork and a sedentary lifestyle. Among the manifestations of burnout are exhaustion, changes in attitude and motivation to work, low professional self-esteem, emotional and cognitive impairments, psychological distress and somatic symptoms. There is a lack of burnout prevention measures at the individual and collective levels, especially for employees working remotely. An unfavorable working environment and the inaccessibility of the natural environment can act as burnout factors, while it is possible to use the resources of both to cope with work stress. Staying outdoors reduces burnout symptoms such as exhaustion, emotional and cognitive symptoms, while it is rarely practiced by IT specialists. The following workplace parameters have a positive effect on the prevention of burnout: openness, cleanliness, ventilation and lighting, comfortable furniture and appliances, areas for physical activity, relaxation and privacy, “green” zones, design brightness. The results obtained can be used as recommendations in the design of a biophilic and salutogenic working environment.