DIGITAL FATIGUE AND EMPLOYEE ENGAGEMENT IN MULTINATIONAL FIRMS IN RIVERS STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

This study examined the relationship between digital fatigue and employee engagement in selected multinational firms in Rivers State, Nigeria. The increasing use of digital technologies, virtual communication, and online work platforms has improved organisational efficiency but has also intensified digital fatigue among employees. Digital fatigue was examined through information overload and technostress, while employee engagement was measured using dedication and vigor. The study was anchored on the Job Demands-Resources (JD-R) Theory. A correlational research design was adopted, with data collected from employees of selected multinational firms in Rivers State. The study population comprised 620 employees drawn from 8 purposively selected multinational firms in Rivers State, Nigeria, and a sample size of 243 was determined using the Taro Yamane formula. A total of 243 questionnaires were distributed, 228 (93.83%) were retrieved and used for analysis, while 15 (6.17%) were not returned. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and the Pearson Product Moment Correlation Coefficient (PPMCC) at a 0.05 level of significance. The findings showed that information overload and technostress were strongly and negatively related to dedication and vigor. The study concludes that digital fatigue reduces employee engagement by diminishing employees’ enthusiasm and energy at work. It recommends adopting clear digital communication policies, providing technological support and stress management programmes, promoting healthy digital work practices, and strengthening employee wellness initiatives to reduce digital fatigue and improve engagement.