Perceptions About Flow and Boredom in the Information Technology Profession: Evidence of a Generational Issue

Abstract

This article aims to identify evidence of propensity for boredom and flow states among information technology (IT) professionals. A survey using the boredom proneness scale, Lee job boredom scale, and short flow scale resulted in 175 responses from professionals working in diverse IT activities. The main findings offer empirical evidence on the perception of IT professionals regarding (1) the occurrence of boredom and flow (even simultaneously), (2) highest occurrence of flow and boredom in the public sector, and (3) highest occurrence of boredom among younger IT professionals. This article offers relevant interpretations and contributions for theory and practice as it points out an emergent issue: IT professionals must also learn to deal with the routine and protocols of a maturing profession in order to meet industry standards, which interposes an unusual work situation for these professionals and their managers, since still prevail in the field the notions of a propensity for concentration to enjoy the task of coding and a willingness to face challenges, in a relaxed and funny way.