Introduction: The implementation of information and communication technologies (ICT) in organizations has introduced new work modalities that impact productivity. However, the extensive use of digital communication brings concerns regarding organizational effectiveness and workers' mental health, particularly through new psychosocial factors impacting work-life balance. A prominent concept is workplace telepressure, defined as the perceived urgency and pressure to promptly respond to work-related messages, especially outside regular working hours. Previous research links workplace telepressure to burnout syndrome, including emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and reduced personal accomplishment.


Purpose: This study investigates the mediating role of guilt in the relationship between workplace telepressure and burnout, addressing a critical gap in the literature. Specifically, it examines how the constant connectivity demands generate telepressure, potentially increasing employees' guilt for delayed or inadequate responses, thereby contributing to burnout development.


Methods: Using a quantitative, cross-sectional design, the study will survey Chilean workers from various industries and organizational levels. Validated scales, including the Workplace Telepressure Scale (WPT) and the Spanish Burnout Inventory (SBI), will be adapted and psychometrically tested in this population. Structural equation modeling will explore the mediation effects of Guilt on the dimensions of burnout: Enthusiasm toward the job, Psychological Exhaustion, and Indolence.


Results: Preliminary results are expected to validate these instruments culturally and linguistically, confirm the mediation role of Guilt, and delineate profiles of workers with elevated telepressure and burnout, considering sociodemographic and organizational variables.
Preliminary data collection is expected to be completed by 04/2026, with initial results available by 06/2026, in time for presentation at the conference.


Conclusions: This research contributes to understanding how telepressure affects occupational well-being by clarifying guilt's role between workplace telepressure and burnout, providing theoretical and practical insights for managing digital work demands and protecting employee mental health.