Reincentivizing – a new theory of work and work absence
2007

Understanding Work Absence and Sick Leave

Sample size: 130 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Thulesius Hans O, Grahn Birgitta E

Primary Institution: Lund University, Sweden

Hypothesis

How can we develop a theory to explain work absence and sick leave behavior?

Conclusion

The theory of reincentivizing helps to understand and address the factors that contribute to work absence and sick leave.

Supporting Evidence

  • The sickness absence rate in Sweden is among the highest in the world.
  • Work capacity shows little correlation to disease severity.
  • Reincentivizing involves repairing hurt work drivers and releasing mode traps.

Takeaway

This study looks at why people take time off work when they're sick and how to help them get back to work. It suggests that both money and feelings about work matter.

Methodology

Classic grounded theory analysis based on interviews and literature review.

Potential Biases

Potential biases in participant selection and self-reporting in interviews.

Limitations

The study did not include self-employed individuals and may not fully represent all demographics.

Participant Demographics

Participants included individuals on sick leave, healthcare professionals, and social insurance officials, with a mix of ages and genders.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1472-6963-7-100

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