Presenteeism is going to work while sick or medically unable to perform (physically or mentally), due to organizational pressure, fear of losing the job, a culture of being "indispensable", or unclear leave policies. It is different from absenteeism (not going to work): the presenteeist DOES go, but their productivity drops up to a third according to evidence (Johns 2009). It is an early predictor of burnout and chronic health problems.
Concept origin
Johns G. (2009). Presenteeism in the workplace: A review and research agenda. Journal of Organizational Behavior, 31(4), 519-542. doi:10.1002/job.630
How it manifests
- ▸ Going to work with flu, fever, pain, extreme fatigue, or emotional distress
- ▸ Performance significantly lower than usual
- ▸ Decisions delayed, errors increased
Therapeutic approach
The approach requires three levels: (1) individual (review self-demand of being "indispensable" — CBT works the belief), (2) team (psychologize the team vulnerability), (3) organizational (clear policies for health leave, culture that does not reward illness as sacrifice).
Related concepts
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