Many people dismiss individuals who avoid work or remain in the same low-paying job for years as lazy or unambitious.
However, Yegane Asgerova, a psychologist and philosophy doctor at Azerbaijan State Pedagogical University, told SİA that this behavior may signal a deeper condition known as ergophobia, a specific form of psychological disorder where individuals fear demonstrating their professional skills or failing to meet job demands.
"Do you know people who avoid work or have no interest in finding a job? What about those who have stayed in the same low-paying position for years, seemingly satisfied, without seeking new opportunities? Many of us criticize them, offer advice, or insist they deserve better, but few listen. The reason is more complex than it appears.
For many, the thought of job hunting, or even going to work daily, is a source of intense anxiety. They eagerly await weekends, holidays, and vacations, during which they appear like entirely different people. This is not mere laziness. These individuals may be suffering from ergophobia, a psychological condition marked by fear of demonstrating professional skills or failing to meet job demands. Unlike laziness, which is a simple lack of motivation, a phobia triggers high anxiety, physical tension, and stress. Ergophobia is a serious disorder that can make work feel like an overwhelming burden," she stated.
The expert added that ergophobia can stem from repeated criticism during childhood, hostile work environments, or traumatic incidents on the job, leading to anxiety, physical symptoms, and chronic avoidance of professional responsibilities.
Asgerova emphasizes that long-term employment does not guarantee immunity from this condition. Those affected may experience intense stress during interviews or daily tasks and often perceive leaving the job as the only solution. She advises individuals experiencing these fears to seek professional psychological or psychiatric help to address the underlying causes and regain confidence in the workplace.
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