Introduction
Wages are a top priority for workers, yet many struggle to cover their daily needs with their income, leading to physical and mental health issues. Insecure and poorly paid jobs often lack essential protections, exposing workers to psychosocial risks.
The Impact of Low Wages
Low wages can significantly affect both individual and organizational well-being. Marisol Vásquez, coordinator of the psychology hub at Afforhealth Mexico, identifies low wages as a high-risk psychosocial factor affecting both employees and organizational structure.
- Demotivation: Low salaries reduce the incentive for employees to grow, exert effort, or commit to the company.
- Dissatisfaction: Employees may feel their efforts are not fairly rewarded, leading to decreased job satisfaction.
- Reduced Productivity: Lack of motivation can negatively impact productivity, potentially leading to absenteeism or presenteeism.
Health Consequences of Low Wages
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), various mental health risks can affect workers, including discrimination, poor working conditions, limited autonomy, and low wages. These factors can lead to increased stress, anxiety, and physical ailments such as gastritis or colitis.
Roxana Linazasoro, a clinical psychologist and therapist, explains that low wages can cause employees to not perform their tasks adequately within the organization. This lack of motivation may result in high stress levels, potentially developing into chronic stress disorders with severe consequences like hypertension and heart conditions.
Furthermore, low wages can lead to sleep disturbances and insomnia, negatively impacting productivity due to fatigue, distraction, and dispersion.
The Gender and Informal Economy Wage Gap
The International Labour Organization (ILO) highlights that low wages disincentivize employees due to reduced purchasing power and increased economic pressures. Meanwhile, companies experience decreased motivation and commitment among employees.
Women and salaried workers in the informal economy are more likely to be among the lowest-paid. The ILO emphasizes the need for targeted actions to close wage and employment gaps, ensuring fair wages for all salaried workers.
Addressing Low Wages: Recommendations for Employers and Employees
Marisol Vásquez advises employers to view higher wages as an investment in their employees rather than an expense.
- Investment Perspective: Employers should consider the impact of wages on employee turnover, productivity, and human aspects.
- Employee Rights: Employees have the right to express, manage, and work through their emotions in situations beyond their control.
- Performance-Based Incentives: Companies should offer legal benefits, productivity bonuses, or punctuality rewards to motivate employees.
Roxana Linazasoro suggests that employers promote physical activity to counteract sedentary lifestyles and stress, ensuring proper nutrition to avoid stress triggers.
