Workaholism isn’t just a quirky character trait — it’s a genuine addiction, and a particularly unenjoyable one at that.
According to a new study from the University of Bologna, workaholics, often perceived as highly committed or passionate about their jobs, may in fact be suffering from an addiction that diminishes their enjoyment of work. The study, which surveyed 139 workers, discovered that workaholics consistently reported a more negative mood throughout the day, regardless of external factors.
“The negative mood observed in workaholics may indicate elevated daily stress levels and that could be the cause of the higher risk for these individuals to develop burnout and cardiovascular problems,” said Cristian Balducci, the study’s lead author.
Moreover, the study suggests a gender disparity in workaholism, with women more vulnerable to this addiction. The author’s attribute this difference to persisting gender expectations in society.
The research also raises concerns about the impact of workaholics on workplace environments. Workaholics often hold positions of responsibility, and their negative mood could influence colleagues and co-workers, potentially affecting overall organizational morale and productivity.
Balducci’s solution? Organizational intervention.
“Organizations must send clear signals to workers on this issue and avoid encouraging a climate where working outside working hours and at weekends is considered the norm,” Balducci said. “On the contrary, it is necessary to foster an environment that discourages excessive and dysfunctional investment in work, promoting disconnection policies, specific training activities and counselling interventions.”
