Vuca’s Effect on Burnout: Insights From the Technology Industry

This quantitative study examined the effects of Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity, and Ambiguity (VUCA) on self-reported burnout among employees in the technology sector. A total of 440 participants were recruited from across the United States to complete a survey measuring their Perceived VUCA Exposure and self-rated level of burnout and mental health. Descriptive statistics, normative analysis, correlation, and regression analysis were conducted using Stata to explore these relationships between these variables.Findings reveal a statistically significant positive relation between overall VUCA perception and burnout, with Ambiguity emerging as the strongest predictor across all three subscales of burnout: physical fatigue, cognitive weariness, and emotional exhaustion. In contrast, Complexity demonstrated a negative association with burnout, suggesting that certain type of complexity may serve as a protective or engaging function in the workplace. Drawing on these results, the study proposes a multi-level framework designed to inform evidence based strategies to address the unfavorable effects of VUCA. Recommended strategies include actionable organizational interventions, leadership development focused on resilience and clarity, and employee empowerment practices to enhance adaptability. The implementation of the proposed solution begins with targeted leadership training, which serves as a catalyst for organizational system activation and personal development at all levels. By fostering leadership and employee enablement, reduces ambiguity, and supporting proactive burnout prevention, organizations can build more resilient, human-centered environments in the face of continuous change. Keywords: burnout, VUCA, volatility, uncertainty, complexity, ambiguity, technology sector

Grantor dc:publisher

Creighton University

Year dc:date.issued

2025

Author dc:creator

• Torgerson, Lena, E

Advisor dc:contributor.advisor

• Grassmeyer, Kimberly

• ambiguity
• burnout
• complexity
• technology sector
• uncertainty
• VUCA

Statement dc:rights

• Copyright is retained by the Author. A non-exclusive distribution right is granted to Creighton University and to ProQuest following the publishing model selected above.

Language dc:language.iso

en_US

Repository record dc:identifier.uri

https://cdr.creighton.edu/handle/10504/158582

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:cdr.creighton.edu:10504/158582