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Framing stress and associated behaviours at work

An ethnography study in the United Kingdom

Author(s):


Medium: journal article
Language(s): English
Published in: Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, , n. 11, v. 26
Page(s): 2566-2580
DOI: 10.1108/ecam-10-2018-0432
Abstract:

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to understand more precisely the culture and interpersonal behaviours associated with stress.

Design/methodology/approach

The research was conducted using a qualitative approach through an ethnographic methodology in relation to three companies. The greater part of the data collection period was structured into observations that ranged between 2 and 4 hr per day, 1–3 days per week, for a period of six months. A total of ten sites were explored; and on each site, the observations involved activities by 5–20 people.

Findings

The results showed the pivotal importance of interpersonal relationships in coping with the uncertainty of working conditions, the coordination of teamwork and managing responsibilities and power interactions. It was found that the impact of stress is multifaceted, affecting the physical status, interpersonal relationships, work performance and emotional well-being of construction workers. The workers who were studied emphasised five sources of support that help moderate work-related stress: additional tools such as communication systems and software, a facilitated access to professional help (e.g. psychological services), organisational changes in leadership, provision of resources for the well-being of personnel (e.g. job training) and better teamwork.

Practical implications

The study underlines the importance of dedicated services for stress management and specific training-related abilities devoted to reinforcing positive person–organisation dynamics. In particular, the abilities should relate to managing the impact of stress in terms of physique, interpersonal relationships, work performance and emotional well-being.

Originality/value

This is one of the first studies to adopt a psychological perspective for understanding construction scenarios and phenomena and was conducted by a qualified psychologist.

Structurae cannot make the full text of this publication available at this time. The full text can be accessed through the publisher via the DOI: 10.1108/ecam-10-2018-0432.
  • About this
    data sheet
  • Reference-ID
    10576853
  • Published on:
    26/02/2021
  • Last updated on:
    26/02/2021
 
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