The positive wellbeing aspects of workaholism in cross cultural perspective: The chocoholism metaphor

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to offer a counter‐intuitive conceptual framework to the study and the management of workaholism. The paper proposes that the phenomenon can be constructive, generating welcoming outcomes for individuals, organizations and societies.

Design/methodology/approach

A set of propositions about workaholism and its management under various contexts is presented and discussed.

Findings

Workaholics should not be labeled as problematic addicts. Workaholism should not be automatically taken as negative and be suppressed. If the culture is positive towards workaholism, offer alternatives.

Research limitations/implications

The framework has a number of practical implications such as reconsidering the negative stigmatization of workaholic employees.

Practical implications

The framework should be useful for managers in dealing with workaholics at work.

Originality/value

The paper develops a framework that enables “out of the box” thinking of workaholism.

Citation

Baruch, Y. (2011), "The positive wellbeing aspects of workaholism in cross cultural perspective: The chocoholism metaphor", Career Development International, Vol. 16 No. 6, pp. 572-591. https://doi.org/10.1108/13620431111178335