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Volume 27, Issue 2 (summer 2025)
Advances in Cognitive Sciences 2025, 27(2): 81-95 |
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Research code: 401498
Ethics code: IR.TABRIZU.REC.1403.071
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Ashari S, Amraee B, Moosavinezhad S S. A structured review of the concept of stress in design: An analysis of the existing research literature. Advances in Cognitive Sciences 2025; 27 (2) :81-95
URL: http://icssjournal.ir/article-1-1703-en.html
URL: http://icssjournal.ir/article-1-1703-en.html
1- PhD in Industrial Design, Department of Design, Tabriz Islamic Art University, Tabriz, Iran
2- PhD in Art Research, Assistant Professor, Department of Design, Tabriz Islamic Art University, Tabriz, Iran
3- Lecturer, MA in Cognitive Psychology (Cognitive Sciences), Faculty of Humanities, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
2- PhD in Art Research, Assistant Professor, Department of Design, Tabriz Islamic Art University, Tabriz, Iran
3- Lecturer, MA in Cognitive Psychology (Cognitive Sciences), Faculty of Humanities, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
Abstract: (994 Views)
Introduction: Understanding stress in design activities is crucial as it can impact designers’ cognitive experiences and the quality of design outcomes. Despite efforts to clarify this issue, it remains ambiguous. Addressing this gap can partially fill the existing void. This research aims to demystify the concept of design stress by drawing on findings from the first systematic review in this field.
Methods: This research employs a qualitative approach, using descriptive-analytical methods, including systematic review and grounded theory. The study focuses on articles in the design field addressing the topic of stress. The data collection tool consists of a checklist of selected keywords used to search in reputable international scientific databases.
Results: A systematic review of 21 identified articles in the field of design studies addressing the topic of stress was conducted. Open coding revealed 15 main themes, axial coding identified 14 primary categories, and selective coding determined 11 central core studies to explore their relationships and clarify the concept of design stress. Using a relative frequency distribution chart, it was found that all studies fall within the thematic area of design stress, with most focusing on mental stress in the design process and design creativity.
Conclusion: The theory derived from this study reveals a complex relationship between stress and design, shaped by the interplay of psychological, cognitive, physical, behavioral, and emotional pressures arising from the design process and the demands of creativity and innovation. This type of stress can negatively affect designers’ mental health and professional performance. Consequently, the study emphasizes that understanding design-related stress requires a multifaceted approach aimed at identifying its sources and impacts. Moreover, the insights gained can contribute to fostering a professional culture focused on recognizing, managing, and enhancing designers’ mental and physical well-being —ultimately improving both the design experience and designers’ overall health.
Methods: This research employs a qualitative approach, using descriptive-analytical methods, including systematic review and grounded theory. The study focuses on articles in the design field addressing the topic of stress. The data collection tool consists of a checklist of selected keywords used to search in reputable international scientific databases.
Results: A systematic review of 21 identified articles in the field of design studies addressing the topic of stress was conducted. Open coding revealed 15 main themes, axial coding identified 14 primary categories, and selective coding determined 11 central core studies to explore their relationships and clarify the concept of design stress. Using a relative frequency distribution chart, it was found that all studies fall within the thematic area of design stress, with most focusing on mental stress in the design process and design creativity.
Conclusion: The theory derived from this study reveals a complex relationship between stress and design, shaped by the interplay of psychological, cognitive, physical, behavioral, and emotional pressures arising from the design process and the demands of creativity and innovation. This type of stress can negatively affect designers’ mental health and professional performance. Consequently, the study emphasizes that understanding design-related stress requires a multifaceted approach aimed at identifying its sources and impacts. Moreover, the insights gained can contribute to fostering a professional culture focused on recognizing, managing, and enhancing designers’ mental and physical well-being —ultimately improving both the design experience and designers’ overall health.
Received: 2024/07/29 | Accepted: 2025/08/17 | Published: 2025/10/5
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