Employer Liability for Technology Addiction

In a recent issue of the journal Strategic Change, authors Nada Kakabadse (Northampton Business School) , Gayle Porter (Rutgers School of Business), and David Vance (Rutgers School of Business) have published an interesting article, "The Unbalanced High-Tech Life:  Are Employers Liable?"  The abstract:

• Technology has created new capabilities, as well as new demands, for many of today’s employees. For those who work in technology-enhanced environments, the pace and round-the-clock activity creates a source of stimulation that may become addictive.
• While the potential for this type of behavioral addiction is recognized by both researchers and the popular press, few companies are seriously considering the associated risks, one of which could be legal action against the organization. 
• By combining research on addiction, technology use, workplace demands, and legal precedent, this article considers issues likely to require decision by the courts, as well as background on the evolution of related legal questions for insight to possible outcomes.

If workplace technology addiction becomes a realistic cause of action, my dean had better be ready.  On the other hand, that would also mean that I shouldn't expect a school-provided iPhone anytime soon.

Hat Tip:  Bill Herbert

-JH