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

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. Clinical Significance This study revealed that a reasonable intensity of telework may have beneficial effects on work engagement. A reasonable intensity is defined as low (once per week to once per month) or moderate intensity (two to three days per week) for both men and women.