ArticleFrontiers in psychology2026
The more the better? The non-linear effect of workload on workplace well-being.
Article in Frontiers in psychology, 2026. The graph could read no effect estimate from its abstract, so it casts no vote on the map. Not yet cited in PubMed.
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4 authors.
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Abstract
Introduction: It is unclear what level of workload is best for workplace well-being, in part because researchers have only tested linear relationships. We tested an inverted U-shaped model in which workplace well-being is optimal at a moderate level of workload. The mediation effect of autonomous motivation were also tested. Methods: We conducted two studies with employees. Study 1 ( Results: The data were analyzed using non-linear analytical techniques and mediation analyses conducted with the PROCESS macro. The results of both studies showed a U-shaped curve, but contrary to expectations, the curve was positive rather than inverted: an increase in workload from low to moderate was associated with decreased workplace well-being, but an increase in workload from moderate to high was associated with increased workplace well-being. The mediation effect of autonomous motivation emerged in study 1, but not Study 2. Discussion: These results suggest that employees should be given a moderate workload that can be increased, rather than starting with a low workload.
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