Remote Work Perceptions from a Generational Lens
Kristina Gjika
Department of Psychology
Faculty Supervisor: Diana R. Sanchez
This study looks at generational differences between Generation Z and Millennials of their perceptions, expectations, and skills related to remote work, using validated psychological measures and a Person–Environment (P–E) Fit framework. The research is grounded in the assumption that Gen Z, as digital natives, may be more favorable toward and better equipped for remote work than Millennials. The literature review highlights that while remote work is widely valued for flexibility and autonomy, it also introduces challenges such as isolation, communication barriers, and blurred work–life boundaries. It further emphasizes that generational differences are often overstated in existing research, with evidence suggesting that observed differences may reflect career stage or contextual factors rather than true cohort effects. Nonetheless, Gen Z is often characterized as digitally fluent but less experienced in self-regulation, while Millennials are seen as more experienced in navigating remote work structures. To address gaps in the literature, this study uses a quantitative survey with validated scales. It measures: • Perceptions of remote work including self-efficacy factors and perceived benefits and disadvantages • Expectations for remote work • Remote work skills Participants were recruited from SONA, Prolific, and convenient sampling, with strict data-cleaning procedures to ensure quality and valid generational classification. Analyses primarily rely on independent-samples t-tests, MANOVA, and correlational methods to examine differences between groups.