Title
Voluntary or involuntary? Control over overtime and rewards for overtime in relation to fatigue and work satisfaction
Author
Beckers, D.G.J.
van der Linden, D.
Smulders, P.G.W.
Kompier, M.A.J.
Taris, T.W.
Geurts, S.A.E.
TNO Kwaliteit van Leven
KvL
Publication year
2008
Abstract
This study aims to examine whether the relationship between overtime and well-being is influenced by the voluntary vs. involuntary (i.e., compulsory) nature of overtime work and by the presence or absence of rewards for overtime. We also explored the prevalence of these types of overtime and how they were related to work and personal characteristics. A survey was conducted among a representative sample of Dutch full-time employees (N=1612). AN(C)OVA was used to compare rewarded and unrewarded, voluntary and involuntary overtime workers on personal and work characteristics, fatigue, and work satisfaction. Most overtime workers were rewarded (62%). About half of the sample (n=814) could be classified as either voluntary or involuntary overtime workers, or as having "mixed reasons" to work overtime. Voluntary and unrewarded overtime workers had a relatively high income and favourable job characteristics. Involuntary overtime work was associated with relatively high fatigue and low satisfaction, especially for involuntary overtime workers without rewards who can be considered a burnout risk group. Voluntary overtime workers were non-fatigued and satisfied, even without rewards. It can be concluded that control over overtime and rewards for overtime are important for well-being. Moderate overtime work may not be a problem if it is done voluntarily. Moreover, the negative effects of compulsory overtime work may be partly offset by fair compensation for the extra work.
Subject
Workplace
Veilig en Gezond Werken
Compulsory
Fatigue
Mandatory
Overtime work
Rewards
Work hours
Work satisfaction
Work-related stress
Worktime control
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DOI
https://doi.org/10.1080/02678370801984927
TNO identifier
240569
ISSN
0267-8373
Source
Work and Stress, 22 (1), 33-50
Document type
article