The Sense of Presenteeism Arising from the Remote Work Model
Chapter from the book:
Karasu,
E.
(ed.)
2026.
Management and Organization in the Digital Age.
Synopsis
In response to the pandemic that affected the entire world between 2019 and 2022, the practice of working from home, one of the ways in which the remote working model was implemented in global labor markets, was initiated. This study examines the feeling of presenteeism experienced by employees working from home, a model that became widespread during the pandemic. This study aims to demonstrate that this feeling, common in standard work relationships, also emerges during work-from-home. The feeling of presenteeism experienced while working from home can also be expressed with the concept of "digital presenteeism." This study is important because it seeks answers to questions such as "How were those working from home able to continue their work during this period?", "Did this process affect their work?", and "Did they experience feelings of presenteeism?", and because of the subjectivity of the issue. This study contributes to the literature on this topic. The study was conducted with a sample group of 27 individuals. A text consisting of 33 semi-structured open-ended questions was used in the study. Qualitative research methods were employed. Purposive sampling was preferred in sample selection. he sample group required for the study was reached through snowball sampling. The obtained data were subjected to content analysis to arrive at categories and codes. The sample group was asked one direct question regarding the feeling of presenteeism. The study revealed that presenteeism develops not only in traditional work models but also in digital work environments such as working from home. Furthermore, despite the prevailing feelings of presenteeism, it was determined that employers and employees exhibited different attitudes. While some employees emphasized that they continued working even during periods of discomfort, others stated that they did not work during this time.
