About one-third of U.S. workers say they would fear professional repercussions for taking a leave of absence from their current jobs, according to a new report from The Hartford.
The study, which surveyed both employees and employers on topics related to workplace benefits, found that 31% of workers would fear being fired, laid off, having their hours reduced or being passed over for promotion opportunities if they took a leave of absence, and 29% said there is a “negative perception” associated with a prolonged absence from work.
The stigma against leaves of absence was particularly strong among younger employees, and seemed to lessen with age and experience. Exactly half of Generation Z and younger Millennial respondents said they’d be fearful of the consequences of temporarily leaving their jobs, compared to 41% of older Millennials, 30% of Gen Xers and only 16% of Baby Boomers.
The findings suggest at least some level of distrust and financial anxiety on the part of employees who have weathered the massive economic and personal disruptions brought on by the coronavirus pandemic over the past year.
As The Hartford pointed out, however, many companies have actually expanded benefits, mainly in response to COVID-19.
Three-fourths of responding employers told researchers they’ve added or strengthened programs designed to support paid time off from work, including more generous sick time and medical and family leave.
