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Theoretical Framework for Informal Groups of Construction Workers: A Grounded Theory Study

Author

Listed:
  • Yuan Fu

    (School of Management Science and Real Estate, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400045, China)

  • Gui Ye

    (School of Management Science and Real Estate, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400045, China
    Center for Construction Economics and Management, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400045, China)

  • Xiaoyu Tang

    (School of Management Science and Real Estate, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400045, China)

  • Qinjun Liu

    (School of Computing, Engineering and Mathematics, Western Sydney University, Locked Bag 1797, Penrith, NSW 2751, Australia)

Abstract

The current construction industry, which has a high accident rate and declining labor productivity, urgently requires efficient and practical management policies. Research has shown that social norms within informal groups have considerable influence on construction workers, while studies on informal groups of construction workers (IGCWs) have been scarce. Current theories of informal groups have not been analyzed in combination with construction industry characteristics. The purpose of this paper is to develop a theoretical framework of IGCWs, including definitions, types, characteristics, causes, and functions. First, on the basis of existing theoretical research of informal groups, two semistructured interviews were designed to collect data from managers and workers. Then, a qualitative approach using grounded theory with NVivo software was employed to code the interview information, and 25 subcategories were obtained: 5 types, 10 characteristics, 4 causes, and 6 functions of IGCWs. Eventually, a conceptual model was established to explain the definition of IGCWs according to the interview data and subcategories identified. This study not only contributes to improving behavioral science theory, especially group behavior theory and human relations theory, but also contributes to constructing an informal group theory of the construction industry. In practical terms, the targeted identification of IGCWs is useful for managers in taking measures to more effectively manage construction workers.

Suggested Citation

  • Yuan Fu & Gui Ye & Xiaoyu Tang & Qinjun Liu, 2019. "Theoretical Framework for Informal Groups of Construction Workers: A Grounded Theory Study," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 11(23), pages 1-28, November.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:11:y:2019:i:23:p:6769-:d:292138
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Jan Terje Karlsen, 2008. "Forming relationships with stakeholders in engineering projects," European Journal of Industrial Engineering, Inderscience Enterprises Ltd, vol. 2(1), pages 35-49.
    2. L.P. Andersen & I.L. Karlsen & P. Kines & T. Joensson & K.J. Nielsen, 2015. "Social identity in the construction industry: implications for safety perception and behaviour," Construction Management and Economics, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 33(8), pages 640-652, August.
    3. Charlotte Baarts, 2009. "Collective individualism: the informal and emergent dynamics of practising safety in a high-risk work environment," Construction Management and Economics, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 27(10), pages 949-957.
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    Cited by:

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    2. Zhen Li & Rui Mao & Qing Feng Meng & Xin Hu & Hong Xian Li, 2021. "Exploring Precursors of Construction Accidents in China: A Grounded Theory Approach," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 18(2), pages 1-16, January.
    3. Yongliang Deng & Ying Zhang & Zhenmin Yuan & Rita Yi Man Li & Tiantian Gu, 2023. "Analyzing Subway Operation Accidents Causations: Apriori Algorithm and Network Approaches," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 20(4), pages 1-20, February.

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