Emotional and Cognitive Overload: The Dark Side of Information Technology

By Anne-Françoise Rutkowski

Published on October 3, 2018 by Routledge

The book delves into the lesser-known negative impacts of information technology (IT) on individuals, organizations, and society. It examines how constant exposure to digital devices and automated systems can lead to brain overload, affecting decision-making and memory. The author provides theoretical insights from cognitive psychology, management, and information systems to explore technostress, work substitution, technologically induced conflicts between work and family life, and the redesign of organizational structures.

Supported by real-world case studies, the text also addresses IT addiction and proposes methods for measuring IT-related overload. The concluding chapter looks towards emerging technologies that can enhance cognitive functioning when managed thoughtfully.

This book is crucial reading for anyone seeking to understand the challenges and opportunities presented by our increasingly digital world.