What the study found
The study found that business communication culture is related to work stress and burnout. Open and transparent communication was associated with lower stress, while hierarchical and disorganized communication patterns were associated with higher stress and burnout.
Why the authors say this matters
The authors conclude that communication quality is a central predictor of psychological well-being at work. They also suggest the findings support leadership communication training and structured communication protocols.
What the researchers tested
The researchers used a quantitative survey of 107 employees across diverse organizational sectors. They applied validated measures including the Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI), which assesses burnout, and the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), which measures stress, to examine open, hierarchical, and disorganized communication practices.
What worked and what didn't
Open and transparent communication acted as a protective factor. Hierarchical and disorganized communication were linked to more misunderstanding, lower perceived autonomy, and higher stress. Emotional exhaustion was the most pronounced burnout dimension, especially in sectors with high interpersonal demands, and perceived control appeared to play a mediating role.
What to keep in mind
The summary does not describe specific study limitations beyond the sample size and the fact that it used a survey design. The findings are based on 107 employees and are reported across diverse organizational sectors.
Key points
- Open and transparent communication was associated with lower stress and burnout.
- Hierarchical and disorganized communication were associated with more misunderstanding and lower perceived autonomy.
- Emotional exhaustion was the strongest burnout dimension reported.
- Perceived control appeared to mediate the link between communication culture and well-being.
- The study used a survey of 107 employees and standard burnout and stress scales.
Disclosure
- Research title:
- Open communication is linked to lower work stress and burnout
- Authors:
- Špela Skrt Keser, Jelena Ivelić Telišman
- Institutions:
- University North, University North
- Publication date:
- 2026-03-09
- OpenAlex record:
- View
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