nrc.nl
Bore-out: Increasing Prevalence and Solutions
The Netherlands is experiencing a rise in bore-out cases, particularly among older workers nearing retirement and younger workers in large organizations; solutions involve open communication, exploring alternative roles, and potentially seeking new employment.
- Why are these specific groups more susceptible to bore-out, and what are the underlying causes?
- Older workers face challenges due to approaching retirement and the increased difficulty of changing careers. Younger employees, accustomed to fast-paced work and information overload, may find the slower pace and processes of larger organizations unfulfilling and lacking in value.
- What is the current situation regarding bore-out in the Netherlands, and what groups are most affected?
- According to the Arbo Unie, bore-out cases are sharply increasing since 2021, especially in the final months of the year. Those most vulnerable include individuals at the beginning and end of their careers. Older workers nearing retirement often struggle to transition to new roles, while younger workers in hierarchical organizations may find their roles unfulfilling.
- What are the recommended solutions for both prevention and recovery from bore-out, and what obstacles might individuals face?
- Prevention involves regular discussions about career development. Recovery focuses on identifying activities that provide energy and involves exploring alternative roles, which may require salary reductions or increased commute. A major obstacle is individuals fearing job loss or negative perceptions from employers.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The article presents a balanced view of bore-out, exploring its causes and solutions from multiple perspectives (employees at different career stages, employers, career coaches). While it highlights the increasing prevalence of bore-out, it doesn't overly sensationalize the issue. The introduction clearly lays out the problem and the article structure follows logically, leading the reader through causes, solutions, and potential challenges.
Language Bias
The language used is largely neutral and objective. Terms like "lusteloos" (listless) and "prikkelbaar" (irritable) accurately describe symptoms without being overly dramatic. The article avoids sensationalism and maintains a professional tone throughout.
Bias by Omission
While the article offers a comprehensive overview, potential omissions include specific statistics on bore-out prevalence beyond the general statement from the Arbo Unie. Further, it doesn't explore the role of workplace culture beyond the examples provided, which could limit the understanding for readers in different workplace contexts. However, this could be due to space constraints.
Sustainable Development Goals
The article discusses boreout, a state of cognitive underload at work leading to decreased productivity and employee well-being. This directly impacts decent work and economic growth by reducing worker engagement, productivity, and potentially increasing healthcare costs associated with mental health issues. The article highlights the increasing number of boreout cases, particularly among older workers nearing retirement, indicating a negative impact on workforce participation and economic output. Solutions discussed, such as seeking new challenges and adapting work roles, aim to mitigate the negative impact on economic productivity and improve workers' well-being.