The transformation of workplaces is being reflected in the increasing number of health issues affecting organisations. This research seeks to identify those factors linked to the physical and psychological requirements of employment that impact upon the appearance of anxiety, capturing the disparities or divergences between young, middle-aged and older workers.
The study follows the precepts of the job demands-control model, the job characteristics model and self-determination theory, with a sample of 35,727 observations from the European Working Conditions Survey 2021. A two-step process involving a t-test for independent samples and an ANOVA is used that attributes the appearance of anxiety to certain job profiles, the type of tasks and skills required, levels of autonomy, work-related outcomes and relationships with others.
The findings indicate that both traditional job demands (e.g. workload, time pressure and restricted autonomy) and greater exposure to technology use – reflected in frequent interaction with digital devices and digitally mediated work practices – are positively associated with increased levels of anxiety. Significant age-related differences are observed: middle-aged workers are particularly vulnerable to anxiety due to their higher exposure to digital and organisational pressures, while younger and older workers display distinct patterns linked to skill adaptation, meaning of work and technological engagement.
By adopting a holistic and age-sensitive approach, the study identifies key aggravating factors underlying anxiety disorders and contributes to the debate on job and technological demands in the digital era. At the same time, it provides actionable guidance for job design and age-responsive human resource management, which may also support progress towards sustainable development goals 3 (good health and well-being) and 8 (decent work and economic growth).
