This book offers a comprehensive analysis of the nature, causes, dimensions, and effects of absenteeism and gives professionals specific guidelines for determining how it affects their particular organization. Economic, psychological, and sociological dimensions are discussed in clear, nontechnical terms. Readers will learn how to analyze absenteeism and measure its direct and indirect costs; how to collect, test, and evaluate data; how to formulate a workable personnel policy; and how to implement effective absenteeism control procedures. The analyses and prescriptions offered are applicable to union and nonunion, blue collar and white collar occupations in virtually any type of industry, agency, or institution. Incorporating the recommendations of arbitrators who have evaluated a wide variety of problems in this area, the authors provide concrete examples of workable and unworkable approaches and bring a wealth of practical expertise to bear on a probelm that continues to pose a major obstacle to greater efficiency and productivity.