Workplace Internet Leisure Browsing

In many organizations, non-work-related web surfing is discouraged. In this research we propose non-work-related web surfing replenishes attentional resources, much like restful legitimate breaks. We tested our prediction in two studies: a controlled experiment vigilance task and a nationwide survey. The results of the experiment suggest that Workplace Internet Leisure Browsing replenishes attentional resources more than less enjoyable types of breaks. The nationwide survey finds a correlation between Workplace Internet Leisure Browsing and perceived productivity for those brought up with the Internet (those younger than 30). Our results add to attention resource theory by providing evidence suggesting enjoyable breaks enable greater continued task vigilance than less enjoyable breaks. We also identify attitudinal differences toward non-work-related web surfing between older and younger workers.