A dialectical theory of the decision to go to work: Bringing together absenteeism and presenteeism

•Despite a common decision, these constructs have developed relatively independently.•Absenteeism and presenteeism are strategies used to navigate dialectical tensions.

The decision to not attend work (absenteeism) has been the focus of a great deal of inquiry; however, research is emerging on the importance of the decision to attend work when ill (presenteeism). Interestingly, despite being the outcome of the same decision, these constructs have developed relatively independently. We argue that absenteeism and presenteeism are strategies employees use to navigate the dialectical tensions in the supervisor–subordinate relationship. Thus, understanding the nature of those tensions, their context, and the strategies employed to manage the tensions can inform employees' decision to attend work.