Trends in Work-Behaviors: Addressing Work-Related Stress in the Thai Workforce

Kiriya Kulkolkarn; Supawadee  Chimpalee

Authors

Kiriya Kulkolkarn Faculty of Economics, Thammasat University, Thailand
Supawadee Chimpalee Independent Researcher, Thailand

Keywords:

Quiet quitting, Bailan, Quiet firing, Frugality, Boomerang employees

Abstract

The evolving work landscape has drawn attention, and the World Economic Forum highlights trends impacting the workforce. This study explores five work behavior patterns: quiet quitting, bailan, quiet firing, frugality, and boomerang employees. Quiet quitting involves disengagement, resembling a silent resignation. Bailan reflects deteriorating work and life due to diminished motivation. Quiet firing employs strategies inducing dissatisfaction for cost-saving resignations. Frugality prioritizes work-life balance over excessive wealth. Boomerang employees return to former organizations.

To assess prevalence and factors in Thailand, we conducted a survey with 400 employees aged 18-35. Regression analysis revealed stressors influencing negative work patterns. Quiet quitting resulted from mismatched job assignments, unclear evaluation criteria, limited autonomy, and conflicting ideologies. Bailan was influenced by misaligned tasks, monotonous work, isolation, criticism, and unsuitable environments. Quiet firing correlated with excessive workloads, mismatched tasks, isolation, criticism, neglect, unfair treatment, and conflicting ideologies. Frugality factors included unclear job scope, restricted autonomy, isolation, incongruent ideologies, and insufficient resources. Boomerang employees were affected by misaligned tasks and an unsupportive atmosphere.

The study found moderate to low levels of negative work behaviors among Thai employees. Organizations can mitigate these by addressing stress factors, refining job assignments, establishing clear criteria, fostering autonomy, promoting open communication, and nurturing supportive environments. These measures not only curb negative behaviors but also align with SDG 8, fostering decent work and sustainable economic growth.

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