Do you really know? Why are we obsessed with presenteeism?
May 26, 2025
Explore the rising trend of presenteeism in the workplace, especially heightened by the COVID-19 pandemic. Discover how stress, poor mental health, and job insecurity drive employees to work longer hours than necessary. Learn about the various forms of presenteeism, including working while sick, and the negative impact it has on productivity and overall employee burnout.
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Presenteeism Defined and Driven
- Presenteeism increased during the COVID-19 pandemic, driven by stress, poor mental health, and financial worries.
- Being present at work more than needed often reflects job insecurity or the need to appear hardworking.
Three Types of Presenteeism
- Presenteeism manifests in three ways: contemplative, strategic, and sickness presenteeism.
- Each type has distinct behaviors, but all relate to workers being present despite varying productivity or health.
Work Demands Fuel Presenteeism
- Presenteeism often increases with job demands and work-life encroachment.
- Workers may overwork to demonstrate effort, especially under pressure or micromanagement.