The present study draws on the self-determination theory (SDT) to determine the impact of autonomous motivation on functional presenteeism with the mediating effect of meaningful work. The data was collected from 151 full-time working professionals working in organizations. The data analysis was performed by using the SPSS Process macro. The study aimed to find out the relation of autonomous motivation with meaningful work and the subsequent relation of meaningful work with functional presenteeism, using selfdetermination theory. Our study found a positive relationship between autonomous motivation and functional presenteeism with the mediation effect of meaningful work. Our findings offer new connections between functional presenteeism and a growing body of literature on SDT. The current study explains the linking mechanism between autonomous motivation and functional presenteeism. This study can contribute to a comprehensive understanding of presenteeism by observing it as adaptive behavior, seeing presentees as diverse groups, and discovering the significance of the work environment by corresponding performance demands and health. It sketches novel opportunities for research and the effective management of presenteeism, health, and performance. Organizations should consider addressing the factors of the work environment in their efforts to promote autonomous motivation and functional presenteeism in their employees.

Keywords: Autonomous Motivation, Meaningful Work, Functional Presenteeism, Self-Determination Theory, Attendance Behavior, Health.