Remote Work, Stress, and Productivity: An Empirical Psychology Study in IT Professionals Working From Home

The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated a global shift toward remote work, fundamentally altering the dynamics of organizational life and employee well-being. This study investigates the relationship between remote work, stress, and productivity among IT professionals working from home in Siwan, Bihar. Employing a mixed-methods research design, both quantitative measures (structured questionnaires, Perceived Stress Scale, productivity indicators) and qualitative insights (semi-structured interviews) were integrated. A sample of 23 randomly selected IT professionals provided data on work environment, stress levels, sleep quality, work–life balance, and coping strategies. The findings reveal that infrastructural quality—particularly reliable internet connectivity, ergonomic workspaces, and device adequacy—emerges as the most significant determinant of productivity and stress. High-stress individuals were characterized by frequent technical disruptions, poor sleep, digital fatigue, and declining productivity. Conversely, professionals with stable infrastructure and family support reported better work–life balance, lower perceived stress, and enhanced productivity. Qualitative analysis further highlighted coping strategies such as mindfulness, timeboxing, and Pomodoro techniques, alongside a strong preference for hybrid work models. The study concludes that while remote work democratizes IT employment opportunities in smaller towns, sustainability depends on infrastructural support, effective boundary management, and organizational sensitivity to psychosocial needs.