IO psych chunk 2

What is work recovery?

The process of replenishing psychological, emotional, and physical resources that were expended during work. Without recovery, employees experience exhaustion, poorer performance, and burnout.

Which two theories explain work recovery?

1. Conservation of Resources (COR) Theory – people strive to gain, maintain, and protect valued resources; stress occurs when resources are threatened or depleted.
2. Effort-Recovery Model – performing effortful tasks triggers physiological and psychological load reactions; stopping effort removes these reactions if similar demands are not present at home.

What does the Effort-Recovery Model emphasize?

Recovery requires stopping work demands (effort) so physiological and psychological load reactions can dissipate.

What is psychological detachment in recovery?

Mentally stepping away from work and not thinking about job tasks or problems after work.

What is relaxation in recovery?

A state of low physiological/psychological activation with positive mood, reducing strain and promoting emotional restoration.

What are mastery experiences in recovery?

Engaging in challenging, enjoyable non-work activities that build competence, self-efficacy, and confidence.

Engaging in challenging, enjoyable non-work activities that build competence, self-efficacy, and confidence.

Having autonomy over leisure activities; choosing what to do in off-work time supports intrinsic motivation and well-being.

Give examples of the four key recovery experiences: detachment, relaxation, mastery, control.

• Detachment: Turning off email notifications after work.

• Relaxation: Watching TV, meditating.

• Mastery: Learning a new skill like knitting or cooking.

• Control: Choosing preferred leisure activities instead of obligatory tasks.

Why is detachment considered foundational for recovery?

Without detachment, the mind remains in “work mode,” and other recovery experiences are less effective because mental load reactions remain active.

What is workaholism?

Excessive and compulsive working characterized by an addiction-like drive, not just long hours.

What are the four components of workaholism?

• Motivational – inner pressure to work

• Cognitive – uncontrollable work-related thoughts

• Emotional – negative feelings when not working

• Behavioral – working beyond what’s expected

Name predictors of workaholism.

• Individual differences: perfectionism, negative affectivity

• Work motivations: extrinsic, avoiding negative outcomes

• Workplace climate: cultures rewarding excessive work

• Job factors: high demands, lack of control

• Work involvement: overtime, role centrality, absorption, strong work identity

What are outcomes of workaholism?

• Poorer job attitudes (lower satisfaction, higher stress)

• Worse physical and mental health (burnout, chronic stress)

• Negative personal life effects (work–family conflict, lower life satisfaction)

• Behavioral issues (counterproductive behavior, poorer performance despite long hours)

How can work recovery align with the COR and Effort-Recovery theories?

Recovery halts further resource depletion (effort stop) and allows resource gain through relaxation, detachment, mastery, and control.