Sense of Belonging Helps Cut 'Zoom Fatigue': APA

Videoconferences may be “less exhausting” if participants have a sense of group belonging, reported the American Psychological Association Monday on the personal toll that virtual meetings are taking during COVID-19. Researchers originally surmised that longer meetings and appearing on video would lead factors contributing to “Zoom fatigue,” but a study of 55 employees said a connection with the group minimized fatigue. Participants received nine hourly surveys daily for five consecutive working days last year, completing more than 1,700 surveys based on five to six weekly videoconferences. Researchers’ recommendations included holding meetings in the early afternoon; allowing time for small talk before or after, along with breakout rooms where participants can talk about shared interests; establishing basic rules such as whether to keep webcams on; and taking screen breaks.