Those of you who are ducking down in your cubicle to play a few rounds of your favorite Flash game need not panic when your boss inevitably clears his throat from behind you. Instead, show him the results of a recent study performed by PopCap Games which prove that taking a few ten-minute game breaks at work is a great way to increase your productivity.

PopCap's report shows that as online activities such as e-dating, chatting, and gaming have become more popular, over 57 percent of employees now choose to spend break-time at their computers rather than shuffle into the lounge for a cup of coffee. Unfortunately, such necessary reprieves have never been encouraged by management at most establishments.

"The report proves that a ten minute e-break a day can have significant benefits but ... many bosses are banning them in the fear that they distract employees," said Dr. Chamarro-Premuzic, a psychologist at Goldsmiths University. "By factoring in a dedicated slot for an e-break bosses are fostering a more trusting working environment, boosting productivity and ultimately increasing their profit."

In a move that surely has nothing to do with pushing their own catalog of games, PopCap is campaigning for more employers to insert an e-break into their peons' schedule. Want to anonymously bug your boss to introduce such a break? Head to PopcapBreak.com.