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Workplace wellness participation and the becoming of self

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  • Kotarba, Joseph A.
  • Bentley, Pamela

Abstract

This paper provides a sociological examination of workplace wellness participation as a process that occurs in two stages or levels. The existential model of self provides the theoretical orientation for this examination, and data are presented from an ethnographic study of a large workplace wellness program. The first stage or level of participation involves the establishment of a sense of competence. Competence refers to the perceived ability to 'fit in' with the program, to master the often subtle skills required for membership in the class. Once a minimal sense of competence is established, the employee may decide to join by viewing participation either as an extension of a commitment to wellness, or as a vehicle for experimenting with or establishing a new style of self, the identity of a 'well person' so highly valued in contemporary western culture. The dynamics of workplace wellness participation illustrate a more general cultural trend towards health-as-accomplishment.

Suggested Citation

  • Kotarba, Joseph A. & Bentley, Pamela, 1988. "Workplace wellness participation and the becoming of self," Social Science & Medicine, Elsevier, vol. 26(5), pages 551-558, January.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:socmed:v:26:y:1988:i:5:p:551-558
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    Cited by:

    1. Kathy Charmaz & Virginia Olesen, 1997. "Ethnographic Research in Medical Sociology," Sociological Methods & Research, , vol. 25(4), pages 452-494, May.

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