American Idol is making it difficult to get work done reports The MSR Group, a market research company conducting telephone studies across the United States.

According to statistics gathered by the company, over the past two weeks Americans have been less likely to answer their phones on nights the popular television singing competition airs, particularly during the recent "Idol Gives Back" episode.

"Over the past two weeks, we have seen our interviewers' production levels go down significantly on American Idol nights. The rates have gone from 3.2 completed surveys per hour to about 2.5, a 22 percent decrease. The biggest drop occurred last week during the 'Idol Gives Back' episode where we saw a 41 percent decrease," said Dick Worick, President and CEO of The MSR Group. "Production rates have remained normal on all other days of the week and even for other times of the day."

The reduction in response levels has led the company to change its staffing patterns on "Idol" nights, ensuring its staff isn't left idle.

-American Idol Pictures

(This news article provided by World Entertainment News Network)