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Examining the relationship between stress and absenteeism : a research synthesis

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Examining the relationship between stress and absenteeism : a research synthesis

Darr, Wendy A (2004) Examining the relationship between stress and absenteeism : a research synthesis. PhD thesis, Concordia University.

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Abstract

Work stress and stress-related illness have been touted as significant causes of absenteeism in the popular press. Yet, solid research evidence for a stress-absence connection is currently lacking. Methodological variation across primary studies and multiple theoretical viewpoints preclude a comprehensive understanding of the association between these two variables. The purpose of this research was to synthesize and meta-analyze accumulated findings on the topic. The theory of causation was used to explore and build hypotheses about the nature of the stress-absence relationship, including mediating processes and moderating influences. Findings from 137 studies and 275 effects provide support for a positive causal relationship between stress and absenteeism, and confirm the operation of illness mediating processes. In addition, there is evidence suggesting that absenteeism might have the potential to play a maintenance role in regulating subsequent levels of stress and illness. Little support was obtained for the underlying voluntary-involuntary distinction between frequency and time lost measures of absenteeism. Among the individual-level moderators, the influence of attribution and disposition were confirmed, while the macro social context was the only contextual moderator to receive support. Findings shed light on many theoretical viewpoints, and provide a comprehensive understanding of work stress and absenteeism.

Divisions:Concordia University > John Molson School of Business
Item Type:Thesis (PhD)
Authors:Darr, Wendy A
Pagination:viii, 191 leaves : ill. ; 29 cm.
Institution:Concordia University
Degree Name:Ph. D.
Program:John Molson School of Business
Date:2004
Thesis Supervisor(s):Johns, Gary
Identification Number:HD 5115 D37 2004
ID Code:8354
Deposited By: Concordia University Library
Deposited On:18 Aug 2011 18:23
Last Modified:13 Jul 2020 20:04
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