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Comment and Health

Why fully remote workplaces mean more loneliness – and more sick days

Hybrid working has its benefits, but employees will be happier and more productive with more face-to-face contact, says evolutionary psychologist Robin Dunbar

By Robin Dunbar

7 February 2024

New Scientist. Science news and long reads from expert journalists, covering developments in science, technology, health and the environment on the website and the magazine.

Elaine Knox

FOR most of us, lockdown is now just a dim memory. There has, however, been one lasting effect: hybrid work patterns. The stresses of the daily commute are no more; in its place, we have more time with the children, at the gym or shopping. It is a boon for working parents. This marks a sea change from past work practices. But has it really been the win-win situation some CEOs have claimed?

In our new book, The Social Brain: The psychology of successful groups, we argue that organisations – hospitals, schools, businesses, government departments – are social environments,…

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