From home to office: dynamics of remote work frequency, boundary crossing and employee well-being

Purpose To examine the impact of using work-related information and communication technology (ICT) during off-job hours on employees' emotional exhaustion and to elucidate the role of psychological detachment (PD) and positive work reflection (PWR). Additionally, the study investigated the influence of the frequency of remote work on this relationship. Design/methodology/approach Structural equation modeling was conducted using a three-wave online survey with 507 full-time employees consisting of 170 non-remote workers, 75, 77, 63, 61, and 61 remote workers for one to five days weekly, respectively. Findings Work-related ICT use during off-job hours inhibited PD and encouraged PWR, exacerbating emotional exhaustion. Furthermore, remote work frequency promotes boundary crossing and moderates the relationship between PWR and emotional exhaustion. Originality/value This study contributes to the literature by highlighting the complex interplay between boundary crossing, coping strategies, and emotional exhaustion in remote work. It highlights the importance of fostering PD and minimizing boundary crossing to promote employees’ well-being in increasingly flexible work environments.