Cutoff Point for Distress in Workers
Author Information
Author(s): Willem van Rhenen, Frank JH van Dijk, Wilmar B Schaufeli, Roland WB Blonk
Primary Institution: Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam
Hypothesis
What is the optimal cutoff point for distress in a working population that predicts sickness absence?
Conclusion
A distress cutoff point of ≥11 was defined, indicating a level at which employees are at risk for subsequent sick leave due to psychological reasons.
Supporting Evidence
- A distress cutoff point of ≥11 was established based on sensitivity and specificity analyses.
- The study involved a large sample of employees, enhancing the reliability of the findings.
- High levels of distress were linked to increased risk of sickness absence.
Takeaway
The study found that if workers score 11 or higher on a distress questionnaire, they might need help to avoid taking time off work due to stress.
Methodology
The study used the Four Dimensional Symptom Questionnaire (4DSQ) to measure distress in two samples of employees, comparing sensitivity and specificity for various cutoff points.
Potential Biases
Potential bias may arise from the self-report nature of the questionnaire and the specific occupational context of the study.
Limitations
The study's population was limited to employees of a telecom company, which may restrict the generalizability of the findings.
Participant Demographics
The first sample consisted mainly of men (91%) with a mean age of 43.9 years, while the second sample had 66% men and a mean age of 41.9 years.
Statistical Information
P-Value
<0.000
Statistical Significance
p<0.000
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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