The study suggests that workers stressed by a high work commitment may be more likely to suffer a recurrence of absence or be ineffective in early return to work. The earlier that employers can identify high-work-stress individuals, the greater likelihood an episode of sick leave or work disability can be prevented. A work climate with high levels of conflict, supervisors that don't consider workers' views or even bullying also is a significant determinant of absence. For departments, units or locations that experience unusually high sick leave volumes, employers may want to determine whether the organizational climate there is appropriate.