Exploring the Phenomenon of Absenteeism Amongst Working Mothers in Lebanon

Abstract

This qualitative study aims to explore the phenomenon of absenteeism amongst working mothers in Lebanon by gaining a deeper understanding of the factors that contribute to this phenomenon as well as the Lebanese cultural and organizational norms that influence the prevalence of absenteeism. The study collected data using semi-structured interviews with Lebanese working mothers from various industries. The data gathered from the interviews were combined and analyzed manually using the Gioia method. Findingsindicate the prevailing cultural norms that influence the absenteeism of working mothers, where it suggested family prioritization, gender roles expectations, punctuality and commitment to work as main contributors that influence absence behaviors of working mothers. Whereas the prevailing organizational norms included management’s negative perceptions and attitudes, an “always-on” culture, accountability for time off, lack of organizational support, career development limitations, and lack of job security. The study’s findings also showed family obligations, school visits and meetings, and childcare responsibilities were all personal-related factors that impact the work attendance of working mothers. Findings also revealed some health-related factors such as stress, sickness and COVID 19, fatigue and medical appointments as main contributors to absenteeism. This project provides a significant contribution by developing a comprehensive understanding of the factors that impact the absenteeism phenomenon among working mothers in the Lebanese context and highlighted the main cultural and organizational norms that shape the prevalence of such a phenomenon. Finally, important implications for Human Resources are discussed.