Since the pandemic, videoconferencing has become a major part of everyday life, allowing people to work remotely, stay in touch with loved ones, and participate in virtual events. However, spending long periods on video calls can lead to exhaustion, known as videoconferencing fatigue (VF).
This type of fatigue can manifest physically, emotionally, or cognitively. A recent study from Singapore explored whether the type of virtual background used during video calls could influence VF and identified some interesting findings.
Heng Zhang, co-author of the study and a researcher at Nanyang Technological University’s Wee Kim Wee School of Communication and Information, said:
“We show that the use of different types and contents of virtual backgrounds can contribute to VF. Users who utilize video virtual backgrounds experience higher levels of videoconferencing fatigue compared to those who use image or blurred virtual backgrounds.”
Impact of Background Types on Videoconferencing Fatigue
The study surveyed over 600 individuals, asking them about their virtual background preferences, whether static images, blurred images, video, or no background at all.
Participants’ VF levels were measured using a five-point scale that included general, visual, social, motivational, and emotional fatigue. The respondents, aged 22 to 76, spent around three days a week working from home.
The findings revealed that video backgrounds caused the highest levels of VF, followed by blurred backgrounds.
Zhang explained that our brains naturally respond to new stimuli in the environment, which consumes cognitive energy. Video backgrounds continuously provide new information, making it harder for users to focus, leading to increased cognitive load and, ultimately, VF.
Zhang explained:
“Image backgrounds initially present new information, but users might gradually shift their attention elsewhere. Blurred backgrounds don’t introduce new information, but occasionally users may catch glimpses of the real environment, which presents new information.”
“Video backgrounds, however, continuously introduce new information, constantly interrupting users’ attention and putting a demand on cognitive resources.”
The Role of Virtual Environments
The type of environment displayed in the virtual background also affects VF.
Zhang noted:
“Users who use nature-themed backgrounds report lower levels of VF compared to others.”
In contrast, office or public space backgrounds can add pressure, as users may feel the need to behave as though they are physically in those environments, further contributing to fatigue.
For work-related video calls, nature-themed backgrounds may provide a more relaxing alternative, reducing the strain on cognitive resources. Additionally, for casual settings, lighthearted or humorous backgrounds were shown to result in the lowest levels of VF.
Enhancing the Videoconferencing Experience
The research suggests that choosing the right background can not only enhance the effectiveness of meetings but also improve the psychological experience for participants.
The study’s authors advised:
“Making thoughtful choices could not only enhance meeting effectiveness, but also improve the users’ psychological experience, reducing the fatigue associated with videoconferencing.”
Further Studies Required on Videoconferencing Fatigue
While their study provides valuable insights, the researchers highlighted the need for further research on videoconferencing fatigue.
They suggested exploring how different age groups and the purpose of the video call affect the relationship between virtual backgrounds and VF. Additionally, the impact of other participants’ backgrounds during calls should also be examined.
Zhang concluded:
“A more comprehensive understanding of the role of virtual backgrounds in videoconferencing could provide more targeted recommendations for future research and practice.”
Article Source: Frontiers Media S. A.
Citation
Li, B. J., & Zhang, H. (2024). Exploring the links between type and content of virtual background use during videoconferencing and videoconference fatigue. Frontiers in Psychology, 15, 1408481. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2024.1408481