Investigating Mediated Pathways Between Adult Attachment Patterns and Reported Rates of Absenteeism and Presenteeism

Abstract

This article investigates associations between attachment patterns and reported rates of absenteeism and presenteeism and tests potential mediators of these relationships. A cross-sectional, self-report survey design was employed whereby 448 adult workers completed a battery of questionnaires. The battery included the Attachment Style Questionnaire, the Work Limitations Questionnaire, an absenteeism measure, the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale-21, an external affect regulator use questionnaire, and the Job Content Questionnaire. Overall, results of the participant surveys indicate that insecure attachment patterns are positively associated with absenteeism and presenteeism through the mediating effects of negative emotions, external affect regulator use, and isostrain. Implications for work-based supports are discussed.

KEYWORDS:

• absenteeism
• adult attachment theory
• mediation
• presenteeism

Acknowledgments

Please note that though this research article was carried out for The University of Queensland, this is not the corresponding author's current affiliation.

Notes

^a Total social support.

^b Number of sick days (0) versus 1–6 sick days (1).

^c Total years of employment.