NCJ Number
191404
Journal
American Journal of Criminal Justice Volume: 25 Issue: 2 Dated: Spring 2001 Pages: 279-292
Editor(s)
William G. Doerner
Date Published
2001
Length
14 pages
Annotation
This paper provides a framework for the study of correctional staff absenteeism, and makes recommendations for future research within this area.
Abstract
Employee absenteeism is not only costly but also disruptive for a variety of reasons. The most significant is the fact that correctional facilities rely heavily on manpower and are often understaffed. Therefore, if one employee is absent or there is a vacancy, then the whole system suffers. There are two categories of absenteeism: unavoidable or involuntary, and avoidable and voluntary. The authors proposed to measure employee absenteeism by breaking it down into two categories: “Area Measured” and the “Absence Metric.” Area measured included issues pertaining to sick leave versus unpaid absences or scheduled versus unscheduled absences. Absence metric, on the other hand, referred to how absenteeism was operationalized and measured. There are three types of absence metrics --magnitude, duration, and frequency. According to the authors, further research should address other issues, such as occupational stress, gender, age, health, job satisfaction, and organizational commitment. There should also be further study into the nature, extent, and causes of absenteeism, with a focus on avoidable issues and finding more effective ways to reduce the problem. References