I think Americans are putting in more time for a variety of reasons. Some could be because they are motivated to work on the project and are “workaholics”, others because deadlines are coming up and they need all the time they can get, some because they need the overtime money. There are plenty of others reasons but I think these capture the majority of why they are working so much. I’ve had to work overtime in order to meet a project deadline and it was not the best being stuck at work, when I wished I was relaxing at home. I also agree with you that overworking employees can be detrimental to their motivation and even their health. If you constantly have to work overtime then that kills your desire to work and do your best. Everyone has a breaking point and overworking yourself brings you closer to it inch by inch until one day you finally snap. It’s just reality here in the States where working overtime is just a common sight to see.