Perceptions About Flow and Boredom in the Information Technology Profession

Abstract

This article aims to identify evidence of propensity for boredom and flow states among information technology (IT) professionals. A survey using the boredom proneness scale, Lee job boredom scale, and short flow scale resulted in 175 responses from professionals working in diverse IT activities. The main findings offer empirical evidence on the perception of IT professionals regarding (1) the occurrence of boredom and flow (even simultaneously), (2) highest occurrence of flow and boredom in the public sector, and (3) highest occurrence of boredom among younger IT professionals. This article offers relevant interpretations and contributions for theory and practice as it points out an emergent issue: IT professionals must also learn to deal with the routine and protocols of a maturing profession in order to meet industry standards, which interposes an unusual work situation for these professionals and their managers, since still prevail in the field the notions of a propensity for concentration to enjoy the task of coding and a willingness to face challenges, in a relaxed and funny way.

Exploring barriers that prevent employees from experiencing flow in the software industry

“…In other words, a lack of perceived challenge–skill balance, which is often considered the most important condition for flow (Nakamura and Csikszentmihalyi, 2002), prevented the respondents from experiencing flow in their work. The absence of intellectual stimulation can result in lower engagement in work (de Moura and de Oliveira Rosas, 2021), which was reported by many respondents. In addition, learning experiences and skill improvement are important in the software industry (Edison et al , 2013; Gijbels et al , 2012).…”