The influence of work history factors on arbitration outcomes

This simulation study examines how work history factors affect arbitrators' decisions in absenteeism discharge cases. The authors analyze the responses of 179 arbitrators to survey questions concerning 32 hypothetical absence discharge cases in which four work history factors were systematically varied. Work history factors and due process considerations both are found to have influenced arbitral awards. Due process considerations (the degree to which management followed prescribed procedures) had the strongest impact, followed by previous absence history, prior disciplinary record, job performance, and seniority. The authors conclude that rehabilitative themes were prominent in these arbitrators' decision making. Other significant influences were the arbitrator's educational background, age, and experience.