It seems there’s a scientific basis for your growing frustration with Zoom. After nearly a year of pandemic-induced virtual gatherings—where family celebrations have been dramatically altered and social distancing remains the norm—many of us are feeling overwhelmed. With vaccines rolling out, traditional business interactions have shifted to a digital format, making Zoom meetings a staple of our daily lives. We’ve spent countless hours asking others to mute or unmute, and we’ve learned more about our colleagues’ home decor than we ever imagined. But why exactly are we feeling so fatigued? A recent study by Dr. Max Bennett from the Virtual Interaction Research Center sheds light on the mental toll of prolonged video conferencing, identifying four key factors contributing to what we now call “Zoom fatigue.”
Four Reasons You’re Fed Up with Zoom
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Intense Eye Contact
The level of eye contact during video calls is abnormal. In a physical meeting, participants can look around the room, but on Zoom, everyone is focused on each other all the time. This constant gaze can be overwhelming, transforming listeners into speakers simply because they are being watched.
Solution: Dr. Bennett suggests resizing the Zoom window instead of using full screen and opting for an external keyboard to create a sense of personal space during calls. -
Constant Self-Observation
Most video chat platforms display a feed of your own face while you’re speaking, which isn’t typical in face-to-face interactions. Dr. Bennett compares it to having a mirror follow you around, which would be absurd in real life. This persistent self-awareness can lead to discomfort and fatigue.
Solution: Consider using the “hide self-view” option by right-clicking your image to eliminate this distraction. -
Limited Movement
Unlike in-person or phone conversations, Zoom typically requires you to stay stationary. This confinement can feel unnatural and restricts your ability to engage in typical gestures or movements.
Solution: Dr. Bennett advises positioning yourself further from the camera to allow for more movement or even turning off the video occasionally for a break. -
Increased Cognitive Load
In regular conversations, nonverbal cues are instinctive, but video chats require more effort to interpret these signals. This heightened awareness can be mentally draining, as gestures may be misunderstood in a digital context.
Solution: Take periodic “audio-only” breaks during lengthy meetings to give your brain a rest from interpreting nonverbal cues and gestures.
Dr. Bennett continues to explore the dynamics of video chat fatigue. If you’re curious about your own Zoom fatigue, you can participate in a survey for ongoing research here.
Do you experience Zoom fatigue?
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In summary, the reasons behind our exhaustion during Zoom meetings are rooted in unique psychological and physical factors associated with virtual interactions. By understanding these elements, we can make adjustments to alleviate some of the fatigue and enhance our overall experience with video conferencing.