Soziale Isolation im Homeoffice im Kontext der COVID-19-Pandemie: Hinweise für die Gestaltung von Homeoffice im Hinblick auf soziale Bedürfnisse

Lengen, Julia Christine; Kordsmeyer, Ann-Christin; Rohwer, Elisabeth; Harth, Volker; Mache, Stefanie

BACKGROUND: During the peak times of the COVID-19 pandemic, which were characterized by contact restrictions, many companies initiated telework for their employees due to infection prevention. OBJECTIVE: In this literature review working from home and therefore digital cooperation in a virtual team was investigated, focusing on the organization of occupational health promotion aspects in the context of prevention of social isolation. RESULTS: The current occupational health psychology research identified appropriate and enriched information and communication media accompanied by sufficient and understandable technical support as basic prerequisites for the collaboration of location-independent teams. Also, a continuous socially supporting communication within the team and with the supervisor as well as health-promoting leadership have a positive impact on the employees’ mental health. Additionally, individual (digital) health promotion interventions and flexible working hours are recommended. CONCLUSION: These multifactorial approaches to measures derived from the literature are suggested for companies with employees working predominantly from home to reduce work-related adverse health effects from the crisis, especially with respect to social isolation and to promote their employees’ health.