Workplace Surveillance and Its Descriptive Results: Findings from Kuwait

Abstract

In today’s digital era, workplace surveillance is increasingly implemented to boost productivity and security, making it essential to understand its impact on employee well-being. This study investigates how demographic factors such as age, gender, income, education level, and marital status influence perceptions of workplace surveillance. Using a quantitative approach, data were collected from 258 employees in Kuwait through a structured survey, assessing their views on workplace surveillance through a validated questionnaire. Statistical analyses, including t-tests and ANOVA, were conducted to explore significant differences among demographic groups. Findings revealed notable variations in perceptions based on age and gender. Younger employees, along with women, expressed higher levels of discomfort with surveillance practices compared to their older or male counterparts, indicating a potential vulnerability to perceived privacy intrusions among these groups. However, the study found no significant differences in surveillance perceptions regarding income or marital status, suggesting that certain demographic factors may not directly impact comfort levels with workplace monitoring. The results highlight the critical role of demographic considerations, particularly age and gender, in shaping employee attitudes towards surveillance. Younger employees and female workers tend to feel more affected, perhaps due to heightened awareness of privacy issues or societal dynamics related to surveillance. Consequently, organizations are encouraged to tailor their surveillance policies to account for these demographic variations, potentially alleviating discomfort and fostering a work environment that respects privacy and maintains trust. By addressing these demographic differences, organizations may mitigate potential negative impacts on employee morale and well-being, enhancing both organizational culture and productivity.