Organizational impact of workaholism: suggestions for researching the negative outcomes of excessive work.

Excessive work can be viewed as an addictive behavior, and, as such, it will have a negative impact on the setting in which it occurs, as well as on the individual. This change in perspective is needed to address dysfunctional behavior patterns that interfere with organizational operations. Similarities with other addictions include identity issues, rigid thinking, withdrawal, progressive involvement, and denial. These factors influence decision making and goals of the workaholic. They also interfere with effectiveness by distorting interpersonal relations. Suggestions for further research build on established organizational topics that coincide with characteristics of an addictive pattern.