Skivers, as a noun, commonly refers to individuals who habitually avoid work, school, or other responsibilities, often by pretending to be ill or making excuses. It can also be used as a verb to describe the act of avoiding such obligations. Skivers are known for their tendency to shirk duties, feign sickness, or fabricate reasons to evade their fair share of work or commitments.
This term originated from the British slang "skive," which means to avoid work or duties through laziness or deception. Skivers often exhibit a lack of motivation, discipline, or dedication, seeking shortcuts and exploiting loopholes to avoid their responsibilities. They may frequently engage in tactics such as faking illnesses, arriving late or leaving early, taking extended breaks, or intentionally underperforming.
Skivers are generally seen as a detriment to productivity, fairness, and team cohesion. Their behavior can disrupt the flow of work, burdening others with increased workload and eroding trust within the group. Employers, educators, and supervisors often try to identify and address skivers through various strategies, such as implementing attendance policies, setting clear performance expectations, and providing guidance or disciplinary measures when necessary.
However, it is important to acknowledge that sometimes individuals resort to skiving due to underlying issues such as burnout, mental health concerns, or dissatisfaction with work/school environments. In such cases, addressing the root causes and offering support and resources may be essential in helping individuals overcome their skiving tendencies and fostering a healthier, more productive environment.
