BEING WORK INTERRUPTED: A QUALITATIVE STUDY OF OFFICE MANAGERS

This qualitative study examined the role of work interruptions in the process of unwinding from work, among managers. Six master themes were elicited using thematic analysis: (1) work interruptions, (2) attitudes towards work interruptions, (3) coping strategies, (4) unwinding from work interruptions, (5) emotional and physiological responses and (6) work values. Of particular interest was the finding that the managers reported no emotional tension and work ruminative thinking because they perceived interruptions as part of their job. This study also found that managers held work beliefs and an acceptance philosophy towards work interruptions. The study findings suggest the need for continued investigation into the role of work interruptions and work values in the unwinding process post work.

Keywords: work interruptions; managers; thematic analysis