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Microfoundations of work intensification and burnout

Author

Listed:
  • Alexander Matros
  • Vladimir Smirnov
  • Andrew Wait
  • Helen Zhang

Abstract

This paper develops a model to explain recent trends of work intensification and employee burnout. In an organization a manager assigns tasks to an employee; doing tasks is costly and too many create burnout. In a matrix-style organization,different managers simultaneously assign tasks to an employee, ignoring the ‘externality’ their directives generate on the overall productivity. An over-assignment of tasks also occurs in a vertical hierarchy when task managers at different levels can directly assign tasks. These two frameworks provide a theoretical foundation behind empirical trends and generate testable insights on the organizational causes of burnout.

Suggested Citation

  • Alexander Matros & Vladimir Smirnov & Andrew Wait & Helen Zhang, 2023. "Microfoundations of work intensification and burnout," Working Papers 2023-02, University of Sydney, School of Economics.
    • Handle: RePEc:syd:wpaper:2023-02
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    References listed on IDEAS

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