Scientists reveal the type of virtual backgrounds associated with ‘Zoom fatigue’

Using video or moving backgrounds during Zoom calls can increase mental and physical tiredness during virtual meetings, research suggests.

Scientists said this is because, unlike still images or blurred backdrops, video backgrounds continuously present new information that demand a person’s attention and brainpower.

They said this, in turn, can add to a worker’s “Zoom fatigue” – a form of physical and mental exhaustion that comes from frequently participating in video conference calls.

Lead author Heng Zhang, a researcher at the Nanyang Technological University Wee Kim Wee School of Communication and Information in Singapore, said: “Image backgrounds initially present new information, but users might gradually shift their attention elsewhere.

“Blurred backgrounds don’t introduce new information, but occasionally users may catch glimpses of the real environment, which presents new information.

“Video backgrounds, however, continuously introduce new information, constantly interrupting users’ attention and putting a demand on cognitive resources.”

Previous research has shown that people on video calls spend a lot of time looking at themselves and analysing how they are coming across during the meetings, which can lead to mental exhaustion.

For the current study, the researchers carried out a survey with more than 600 workers aged between 22 and 76 who worked from home around three days a week.

The people were asked whether they used virtual backgrounds, and if so, whether they used a static image, a blurred image, or video backdrops.

A five-point scale was used to measure general, visual, social, motivational, and emotional fatigue.

Among those using still images, nature-themed ones were the most popular, followed by interior spaces and workplace photos.

A minority of people opted for abstract images and light-hearted backgrounds, the researchers said.

They said those who said they used “funny” backgrounds reported lower video call fatigue than people using nature-based backgrounds.

The researchers said this may be because these types of Zoom backgrounds are not used to impress colleagues.

The authors wrote: “Individuals who use them may care very little about how these backgrounds portray them, or use these backgrounds simply as a way to conceal their actual physical environment.

“The resultant lack of stress associated with managing their image leads to lower videoconferencing fatigue.”

Mr Zhang added: “Other backgrounds, such as office settings or public spaces can increase users’ pressure to self-present as if they actually were in one of those settings, leading to increased fatigue.

“In a work setting, a nature-themed image background might be the ideal choice.”