Abstract
Employee absence, or absenteeism, has been a subject of substantial attention in organizational psychology over the past century. It pertains to an individual’s temporary withdrawal behavior from work, bearing significant implications for organizations, individuals, and society. We describe distinct definitions and interpretations of absence, focusing on the organizational psychology perspective. Further, we explain health and motivational understandings of absence, their formation, theoretical underpinnings as well as potential consequences. In addition to the management of absence, this entry highlights shortcomings and potential avenues for future research in the field of absence. Overall, we underline that understanding absenteeism necessitates contextualization, legitimacy assessment, and recognition of changing dynamics, such as technology’s influence and shifting work environments. In sum, exploring absence requires multilevel models that integrate individual, organizational, and societal perspectives as well as recent scientific methods.
Original language | English |
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Title of host publication | Elgar Encyclopedia of Organizational Psychology |
Editors | Matthijs Bal |
Publisher | Eward Elgar |
Chapter | 1 |
Pages | 1-5 |
Number of pages | 5 |
Volume | 1 |
Edition | 1 |
ISBN (Electronic) | 9781803921761 |
ISBN (Print) | 9781803921754 |
Publication status | Published - 2024 |
Keywords
- ABSENCE
- ABSENTEEISM
- Withdrawal behavior
- Workplace attendance behavior