Intensity of home-based telework and work engagement during the COVID-19 pandemic

Nagata, T.; Nagata, M.; Ikegami, K.; Hino, A.; Tateishi, S.; Tsuji, M.; Matsuda, S.; Fujino, Y.; Mori, K.

Objective: The present study examined the relationship between the intensity of home-based telework and work engagement. Methods: This cross-sectional study using a self-administrated questionnaire survey was conducted from December 22 to 25, 2020, in Japan. The subjects were asked single-item questions about the intensity of telework and three-item questions about work engagement using the Utrecht Work Engagement Scale. Coefficients were estimated using a multilevel regression model nested by prefecture of residence and adjusted for covariates. Results: High-intensity (four or more days per week) telework was not associated with high work engagement for men or women. In contrast, low and moderate intensity (three days per week to once per month) were associated with high work engagement. The results were consistent when stratified by sex. Conclusions: Reasonable-intensity telework may have beneficial effects on work engagement.