Researchers at the University of Sussex found that high multitaskers had less brain density in the anterior cingulate cortex, a region responsible for empathy as well as cognitive and emotional control. More research is needed to determine if multitasking is physically damaging the brain, i.e. changes at a brain structure level.

Nothing turns people off quite like fiddling with your phone or tablet during a conversation or class. Multitasking in meetings and other social settings indicates low self and social awareness. Self- awareness and social awareness are two emotional intelligence (EQ) skills that are critical to success at work. Research by TalentSmart has shown that 90% of top performers at work have high EQs. If multitasking does indeed damage the anterior cingulate cortex (a key brain region for EQ), as current research suggests, doing so will lower your EQ while it alienates your coworkers, classmates and professors.

Multitasking clearly slows you down and decreases the quality of your work. Even if it doesn't cause brain damage, allowing yourself to multitask will fuel any existing difficulties you have with concentration, organization and attention to detail.

Adapted from Linked-in December 21st 2016

Essay question: How can this information be used by managers at work? Discuss