Manufacturing Workplace Support Structures and Technology: Effects on Mental Workload, Performance, Self-Efficacy, and Social Anxiety on Both Neurotypical and ADHD Workers

Abstract

This dissertation delves into the intersection of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) symptoms, psychosocial stress, and anxiety among adult workers, particularly in the manufacturing sector, focusing on self-efficacy and the efficacy of augmented reality (AR) and other work support tools in mitigating cognitive load. A comprehensive literature review identifies critical gaps in current studies, particularly the lack of field observations and simulated work environment studies that include ADHD workers. Utilizing methodologies such as the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS), the research examines ADHD prevalence across various employment sectors, elucidating the relationship between ADHD symptomatology and workplace outcomes. The need for tailored interventions and workplace accommodations to support ADHD workers is underscored, emphasizing the potential of AR systems to enhance task performance and reduce cognitive strain. This dissertation advocates for inclusive strategies to address the unique challenges faced by neurodiverse employees. In exploring the impact of augmented reality (AR) technologies on production quality, speed, cognitive load, and usability within a simulated manufacturing environment, this study focuses on participants with varying levels of ADHD symptoms. The research investigates whether different treatments, such as Paper Work Instructions (PWI), Projection-Based Augmented Reality (PBAR), Head-Mounted Augmented Reality (HMAR), and Enhanced Head-Mounted Augmented Reality (EHMAR), influence production outcomes based on self-reported ADHD symptom levels. Statistical analyses, including two-way ANOVAs and regression analyses, examine the effects of ADHD symptom levels categorized as low, medium, and high on primary outcomes: production speed, production quality, cognitive load, and usability. Findings reveal that higher ADHD levels increase production speed for PWI and PBAR but not for HMAR and EHMAR. ADHD symptom levels significantly affect production quality, with decreased error rates as ADHD symptoms increase, notably in the EHMAR treatment. Cognitive load and usability ratings also vary significantly among ADHD levels, indicating the need for tailored interventions and usability assessments to accommodate individual differences in ADHD symptoms. Further, the impact of different workplace support systems on cognitive load, usability, performance, and error rates within a simulated manufacturing setting is explored, specifically focusing on participants with varying levels of ADHD symptoms. Utilizing a within-subjects experimental design, the study assesses the effects of Lean tools, Industry 4.0 (I4.0) sensors, and their combination on task performance during a manual assembly task in a simulated environment. Key findings include significant differences in production speed, quality, and cognitive load across different treatments and ADHD symptom levels. For this study, participants with higher ADHD symptoms produced more cars without increasing error rates, demonstrating an ability to maintain quality under increased production speed. I4.0 sensors significantly improved quality by reducing error rates and received higher usability ratings. The study identifies covariate influences on cognitive load and usability metrics, such as age, race, LEGO experience, and educational background, highlighting the need for tailored support systems. Additionally, a survey of the prevalence of ADHD among U.S. workers, particularly in the manufacturing sector, examines the relationship between ADHD symptoms, self-efficacy, social anxiety, and workplace support systems. Using an online survey with 249 participants across various employment sectors, the study evaluates ADHD symptoms with the ASRS v1.1, self-efficacy with the Global Perceived Self-Efficacy Scale (GPSES), social anxiety with the Liebowitz Social Anxiety Scale (LSAS), and perceptions of workplace support systems. The results indicate that 20% of survey respondents have severe ADHD symptoms, with significant differences in symptoms reported by individuals with and without a diagnosis. Higher ADHD symptom levels correlate with decreased satisfaction with workplace support systems. Social anxiety and self-efficacy levels differ significantly between diagnosed and non-diagnosed individuals, with diagnosed individuals reporting higher anxiety and lower self-efficacy. Overall, this research underscores the importance of recognizing and addressing ADHD in the workplace. By understanding the prevalence and impact of ADHD on workers, particularly in high-risk sectors like manufacturing, organizations can develop targeted interventions and supportive measures to enhance the well-being and productivity of neurodivergent employees. The findings contribute to the broader understanding of ADHD in the workplace and its psychological impacts, providing a foundation for future studies and practical applications in occupational health and management.