Knowledge Base Repository
In addition to research papers, the Design Society is developing several valuable resources for those interested in the study of design. These include a repository of PhD theses, a library of case studies and transcripts of design activities, and an archive of our newsletters. Please note that these resources are accessible exclusively to Design Society members.
Design Stress: An Investigation of Stress Caused by the Design Thinking Process
Ashari, S., Amraee, B., Cascini, G., & Schmidt, S.
Type:
Year:
2025
Editor:
Department of Design, Tabriz Islamic Art University, Tabriz, Iran.
Author:
Supervisor:
Amraee, B., & Cascini, G.
Institution:
Tabriz Islamic Art University, Tabriz, Iran.
Section:
Department of Design
Page(s):
157
Abstract:
Introduction and Objective: Research in design studies with a focus on stress indicates that stress is a persistent factor in the design profession and process. However, the nature, causes, and impacts of this stress have not been comprehensively and transparently examined. Despite efforts to clarify this issue, significant ambiguities remain, as no cohesive and systematic study has addressed the topic, and the fragmented nature of related discussions is evident. Recognizing stress in design as a prevalent and impactful phenomenon is crucial, as inadequate management can lead to acute or chronic stress, ultimately negatively affecting designers’ mental health, professional performance, and the quality of design outcomes. Accordingly, the present study aims to investigate stress arising from the design thinking process through a meta-synthesis approach.
Methodology: This study employs a systematic review based on the PRISMA protocol, scientometric analysis using the VOSviewer tool, grounded theory, and qualitative content analysis through coding to demystify the concept of design-related stress and propose a comprehensive framework for the ontology of design stress. Semi-structured clinical interviews (SCID-5/DSM-5) and the PANAS questionnaire were used to evaluate designers’ mental health, while EEG tools, alongside the PSS and PAQ questionnaires, measured stress arising from the design thinking process. The MetaCogno tool was utilized to capture designers’ emotional and cognitive experiences during the four main stages of the design process (problem analysis, ideation, idea evaluation and selection, and implementation of the final idea). Additionally, the CSI questionnaire assessed designers’ coping strategies in response to perceived stress levels. Stress pattern analysis was conducted using machine learning models, including Random Forest and SVM. Variables such as time constraints and handedness were also examined.
Findings and Contributions: After identifying appropriate methods for measuring design stress, the results categorized stress into three domains: cognitive design stress, neuropsychological design stress, and physiological design stress. Based on these categories, the novel MetaCogno approach was developed. The findings indicate that a unique type of stress, inherent to and arising from the design process itself, exists and introduces a new research domain termed “design stress.” All findings were structured into five ontology categories. Furthermore, the analysis revealed varying levels and intensities of stress across different stages of the design thinking process, impacting designers’ performance differently. Most designers experienced moderate stress levels, with continuous changes in mental states contributing to their adaptability. The ideation stage was
identified as the most stress-inducing phase, where designers reported the highest number of negative experiences, while the implementation stage showed reduced stress and improved performance. Moderate time constraints helped mitigate excessive stress and enhance focus, whereas the absence of time constraints led to fatigue and a decline in performance. Left-handed designers demonstrated better performance, greater mental stability, and lower stress levels compared to right-handed designers.
Methodology: This study employs a systematic review based on the PRISMA protocol, scientometric analysis using the VOSviewer tool, grounded theory, and qualitative content analysis through coding to demystify the concept of design-related stress and propose a comprehensive framework for the ontology of design stress. Semi-structured clinical interviews (SCID-5/DSM-5) and the PANAS questionnaire were used to evaluate designers’ mental health, while EEG tools, alongside the PSS and PAQ questionnaires, measured stress arising from the design thinking process. The MetaCogno tool was utilized to capture designers’ emotional and cognitive experiences during the four main stages of the design process (problem analysis, ideation, idea evaluation and selection, and implementation of the final idea). Additionally, the CSI questionnaire assessed designers’ coping strategies in response to perceived stress levels. Stress pattern analysis was conducted using machine learning models, including Random Forest and SVM. Variables such as time constraints and handedness were also examined.
Findings and Contributions: After identifying appropriate methods for measuring design stress, the results categorized stress into three domains: cognitive design stress, neuropsychological design stress, and physiological design stress. Based on these categories, the novel MetaCogno approach was developed. The findings indicate that a unique type of stress, inherent to and arising from the design process itself, exists and introduces a new research domain termed “design stress.” All findings were structured into five ontology categories. Furthermore, the analysis revealed varying levels and intensities of stress across different stages of the design thinking process, impacting designers’ performance differently. Most designers experienced moderate stress levels, with continuous changes in mental states contributing to their adaptability. The ideation stage was
identified as the most stress-inducing phase, where designers reported the highest number of negative experiences, while the implementation stage showed reduced stress and improved performance. Moderate time constraints helped mitigate excessive stress and enhance focus, whereas the absence of time constraints led to fatigue and a decline in performance. Left-handed designers demonstrated better performance, greater mental stability, and lower stress levels compared to right-handed designers.
Keywords:
