Examining the Relationships Between Time Pressure, Challenge and Hindrance Technostressors and Work Outcomes in Online Labour Markets

Purpose The antecedents and consequences of technostress are well documented. Yet, one aspect of the technostress process that is not well understood is the role of time in shaping perceptions of technostress. This research investigates the relationships between time pressure, technostress and work outcomes in online labour markets (OLMs), a context where work accomplishment is highly dependent upon time. Design/methodology/approach This study uses transactional theory of stress as a theoretical perspective to empirically test a research model explaining the link between time pressure and challenge and hindrance technostressors. Survey data were gathered from 354 workers in a widely used OLM. Structural equation modelling was used to evaluate the research model. Findings The findings show that time pressure plays a dual role, acting as a potential catalyst for both positive and negative effects of technostress in OLMs. Time pressure is significantly related to both challenge and hindrance technostressors. The findings also show that challenge and hindrance technostressors can create a time distortion effect in OLMs. However, despite experiencing hindrance technostressors, the workers in OLMs consider their work important and meaningful. A post-hoc analysis also suggests that the experience of challenge technostressors buffers the negative effect of hindrance technostressors on meaningful work. Originality/value The study extends the prior research by theorising and validating the importance of temporal elements in the technostress process. Time pressure acts as a key environmental antecedent contributing to technostress in OLMs. This study explores how technostressors affect unique work outcomes, such as time distortion and meaningfulness of work in OLMs.