A cross-sectional survey of videoconferencing fatigue and its influencing factors during COVID-19 in the Chinese population

This study investigated videoconferencing fatigue and its influencing factors among Chinese people to inform interventions for reducing fatigue and enhancing well-being during COVID-19 and post-pandemic times. Data were collected via an online questionnaire from February 7 to 13, 2023, using convenience sampling. The questionnaire covered general profiles, health status, videoconferencing usage and intensity, and five nonverbal mechanisms, along with the Zoom Exhaustion and Fatigue scale, which assessed the main indicators. Univariate and step-wise multiple linear regression analyses were used to identify influencing factors. Of the 293 participants, 291 completed the survey (99.32%). The mean Zoom Exhaustion and Fatigue score was 2.18 out of 5. Factors significantly associated with increased fatigue included greater technological complexity, worse health status, more negative attitudes, higher levels of mirror anxiety and sense of feeling physically trapped, and higher cognitive load associated with producing nonverbal cues. Given the widespread use of videoconferencing tools, it is essential to understand the variables that influence videoconferencing fatigue thoroughly and to take the necessary steps to reduce it. According to the results of the study, recommendations to reduce fatigue include familiarizing with software, occasionally turning off cameras and microphones, changing posture, maintaining positive attitudes, reducing unnecessary meetings, and increasing break duration and frequency.