Work-life systems: rethinking endurance and uncertainty in future work

Abstract

The nature of work is rapidly evolving as technological, demographic, and economic changes influence all aspects of our society. The changing nature of work requires a more wholistic understanding of work life systems that encompasses work tasks, non-work, and sleep across longer time spans. In this presentation I explore two concepts through which research is extending the understanding of work-life systems.

First, studies of endurance provide new insights into the long-term impact of demanding work in complex environments. I review research involving two very different work environments: submariners in the Navy and FIFO workers in mining. Both populations highlight psychological and physical challenges best viewed from the perspective of complete work-life systems.

Second, I explore the role of uncertainty in future work. Uncertainty is a defining feature of complex, and high-risk work and often viewed as contextual feature of the work context. I review recent research investigating uncertainty as a more dynamic element of work-life that is both generated and managed when there is ongoing adaptive behaviour. I review recent research investigating how individuals both respond to and generate uncertainty to be adaptive.