General
presenteeism
What does presenteeism mean?
The practice of showing up to work while ill, burned out, or otherwise unable to be fully productive, often out of fear of falling behind or being judged.
"The office culture rewards presenteeism, so people drag themselves in with the flu and infect everyone."
Origin
Occupational-health term in use since the 1990s, contrasted with absenteeism.
Frequently asked questions
What is presenteeism?
Showing up to work while sick, burned out, or otherwise unable to be productive, often out of fear of falling behind or being judged.
How is presenteeism different from absenteeism?
Absenteeism is being absent from work, while presenteeism is being present but not genuinely productive.
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