This study explores the feasibility and validity of collecting ecological momentary assessment (EMA) data to characterize job demands and time use using data from a pilot survey administered through the Understanding America Study (UAS). We collected detailed real-time data on cognitive, physical, and social job demands alongside positive and negative affects at different times during the day, and over three days of the week, to capture differences in how people feel during work-related and non-work-related activities. To examine the concurrent validity of our EMA measures, we combined this data with a standard time diary approach. Our analysis reveals that an EMA approach is highly feasible and valid, as demonstrated by high response rates to the survey and a high degree of consistency in the activities reported between our EMA and time diary surveys. We also find significant differences in demands and emotional affects between work-related and nonwork-related activities, with work-related activities generally perceived as more socially and cognitively (but not physically) demanding, as well as associated with higher levels of stress, frustration, and boredom, and lower levels of happiness. These differences are particularly more salient for respondents who are currently working.
Abstract
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Key Findings
- Our EMA approach proved to be highly reliable, with high response rates and a significant overlap between work activities reported in EMA and time diary surveys. Consistency in reporting work activities increased with the level of education.
- Participants given more time to respond (one-hour versus 30-minute window) had higher response rates but also longer delays, potentially introducing recall bias. Less educated individuals had lower response rates but benefitted from more time to respond.
- Work-related activities were perceived as more mentally and socially demanding than non-work-related activities, particularly among currently working individuals. There were no significant differences in perceived physical demands between work-related and non-work-related activities, regardless of labor force status.
- Work-related activities were associated with higher levels of stress, frustration, and boredom, and lower levels of happiness compared to nonwork-related activities, especially among working individuals.
- Insights into job demands and emotional states can inform workplace policies to reduce stress and improve well-being. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for developing strategies to delay retirement and enhance work conditions. Future research expanding this methodology to larger samples would refine findings and inform policy aimed at improving labor supply decisions and retirement outcomes.