University Study Shows Cell Phones and Emails Can Be More Damaging Than Smoking Marijuana

June 02, 2005 3:12 PM

Worthwhile’s blog posted a link to a great article from 999 Today. Here are a few excerpts:

“In a series of tests carried out by Dr. Glenn Wilson of Institute of Psychiatry, University of London, an average worker’s functioning IQ falls ten points when distracted by ringing telephones and incoming emails. And this drop in IQ is more than double the four point drop seen following studies on the impact of smoking marijuana.”

“Research on sleep deprivation suggests that an IQ drop of ten points is equal to missing an entire night of sleep.”

“The new research, commissioned on behalf of technology experts Hewlett Packard, reveals that 62% of adults are addicted to checking messages out of office hours and whilst on holiday. And David Smith of Hewlett Packard said ‘The research suggests that we are in danger of being caught up in a 24 hour always on society.'”

“Half of workers will respond to an email immediately or within 60 minutes, and one in five people are ‘happy’ to interrupt a business or social meeting to respond to an email or telephone message.”

“89% of workers think that colleagues who answer emails or messages in a face to face meeting are extremely rude. Yet, 30% of people believe it is not only acceptable but actually diligent and efficient to do so.”

Wow. Makes you think twice about running over to your computer every time a new email comes in, huh?

Oh, and by the way – since reading this article I haven’t even opened Outlook Express or signed on to Instant Messenger all day. And boy have I been productive!

LET ME ASK YA THIS…

How does “always on” technology affect your work day?

* * * *
Scott Ginsberg
Author/Speaker/That guy with the nametag
www.hellomynameisscott.com

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