The impact of digitalization on the maritime sector: Analyzing technostress among officer seafarers

This research investigates the technostress levels experienced by seafarers in Turkey during the digitalization of the maritime sector. It analyzes how variables such as marital status, work department, seafarer’s license, age, education, ship type, role, professional experience, and number of dependents affect technostress levels. The study uses data from 411 active ship officers registered with the General Directorate of Maritime Affairs through an online survey utilizing the “Techno-Stress Scale.” Findings indicate that seafarers experience medium levels of technostress in the techno-workload and techno-uncertainty dimensions, while their techno-complexity levels are low. The research reveals that marital status significantly affects overall technostress, techno-workload, and techno-uncertainty dimensions but not techno-complexity. Other variables, including professional experience and ship type, show no significant impact on technostress levels. The study highlights seafarers’ challenges adapting to technological advancements and emphasizes the need to implement strategies to reduce technostress. Suggestions include providing specialized training and support programs to help seafarers cope with the pressures of digitalization.