Calling In Again - Uncovering the Role of Age in Short-Term Sickness Among Employees

Abstract

Purpose: This thesis explores how work-related factors, grounded in the Job Demands Resources (JD-R) model, are associated with short-term sick leave, expressed in 1 to 14 days, across two age groups: 30 years and younger, and 30 years and older. The study also examines the roles of gender and profession in influencing sick leave behaviour, with a focus on the Swedish labour market. Theory: The study is grounded in two complementary theories: the Job Demands-Resources (JD-R) model and Psychosocial Development theory. These frameworks provide an understanding of how job demands, resources and social support affect employee well-being, motivation, and short-term sick leave differently between age groups. Method: A quantitative approach was adopted, utilising secondary data provided by a large public organisation in Sweden. The dataset included sick leave statistics on 50,174 employees and employee survey responses of 36,998 employees, with a focus on employees in patient care roles. Result: The findings indicate that younger employees (<30) tend to report higher job demands and stress, as well as lower motivation and engagement compared to their older colleagues (>30). These factors may contribute to the higher incidents of short-term sick leave observed among younger employees. Job resources showed minimal variation between age groups. No significant relations were found between short-term sick leave and gender or profession.