Workplace Surveillance and Its Psychological Impacts on Employee: A Review

Abstract

The growth of digital monitoring technology has led to increased workplace surveillance, affecting both organizational environments and employee experiences. This review examines the psychological effects of workplace surveillance on employee well-being, job satisfaction, productivity, and organizational trust. Excessive surveillance can cause tension, worry, decreased autonomy, and mistrust, despite its potential benefits for security, efficiency, and compliance. Employees may regard intrusive surveillance as a violation of privacy, lowering their motivation and loyalty to the firm. The review uses theoretical frameworks like Self-Determination Theory and Psychological Reactance Model to describe how surveillance influences psychological outcomes. Furthermore, it examines the moderating role of factors such as organizational transparency, perceived fairness, and control over monitoring. Studies indicate that ethical and well-communicated surveillance policies can mitigate negative psychological effects, fostering a balance between security and employee well-being. The review also discusses potential coping mechanisms and adaptive strategies that employees adopt in response to surveillance. In conclusion, while workplace surveillance serves organizational interests, excessive or opaque monitoring can have detrimental psychological effects.

Keywords: Employee Well-Being, Organizational Trust, Psychological Impact & Workplace Surveillance

View PDF