A compressed workweek is most likely to:

• A. Increase job dissatisfaction due to longer daily work hours
• B. Reduce employee stress by allowing for longer periods of rest between workweeks
• C. Decrease productivity by shortening the total number of hours worked
• D. Lead to higher absenteeism rates among employees

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the concept of a compressed workweek, which typically means employees work the same total number of hours but in fewer, longer days (e.g., four 10-hour days instead of five 8-hour days).
2. Step 2: Consider the potential effects of longer daily work hours on job satisfaction and stress levels, noting that while longer days might seem tiring, the extra day off can provide extended rest and recovery time.
3. Step 3: Analyze how having longer periods of rest between workweeks can impact employee stress, potentially reducing it by allowing more time for personal activities and recuperation.
4. Step 4: Evaluate the impact on productivity and absenteeism, recognizing that total hours worked remain the same, so productivity might not necessarily decrease, and absenteeism could be influenced by factors other than work schedule length.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the most likely effect of a compressed workweek is the reduction of employee stress due to longer rest periods between workweeks, rather than increased dissatisfaction or decreased productivity.