Workplace Bullying in High-Risk Sectors: A Mixed-Methods Study on Prevalence and Impact Among Construction and Manufacturing Employees

Abdul Kadir (), Surindar K. Dhesi, Bangga Agung Satrya, Poppy Yuniar, Hardy Atmajaya, Farhan Fitriadi, Syafiq Fawwaz and Sherin Salsabila Ramadhanty
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Abdul Kadir: Occupational Health and Safety Department, Faculty of Public Health, Universitas Indonesia, Depok 16424, Indonesia
Surindar K. Dhesi: Environmental Health and Risk Management, University of Birmingham, Brimingham B15 2TT, UK
Bangga Agung Satrya: Medical Record and Health Information Management Program, Faculty of Public Health, Universitas Esa Unggul, Jakarta 11510, Indonesia
Poppy Yuniar: Department of Biostatistics and Population Study, Faculty of Public Health, Universitas Indonesia, Depok 16424, Indonesia
Hardy Atmajaya: Occupational Health and Safety Department, Faculty of Public Health, Universitas Indonesia, Depok 16424, Indonesia
Farhan Fitriadi: Faculty of Administrative Sciences, Universitas Indonesia, Depok 16424, Indonesia
Syafiq Fawwaz: Occupational Health and Safety Department, Faculty of Public Health, Universitas Indonesia, Depok 16424, Indonesia
Sherin Salsabila Ramadhanty: Occupational Health and Safety Department, Faculty of Public Health, Universitas Indonesia, Depok 16424, Indonesia

Social Sciences, 2025, vol. 14, issue 11, 1-20

Abstract: Workplace bullying is a critical concern in high-risk sectors such as construction and manufacturing, where high-pressure environments, strict deadlines, and hierarchical structures may intensify the problem. Despite its serious impact on workers’ well-being and productivity, research in these sectors, particularly in Indonesia, is limited. This study examined the prevalence of workplace bullying, contributing factors, and its effects on mental health among construction and manufacturing workers. It also explored barriers to prevention and potential strategies for mitigation. A mixed-methods design was applied, involving 1029 workers (620 manufacturing, 409 construction). Quantitative data were collected using the Negative Acts Questionnaire—Revised (NAQ-R), while qualitative insights were obtained through Focus Group Discussions (FGDs). Analyses included chi-square tests, logistic regression, and thematic analysis. Bullying was more prevalent in construction, especially among younger and less experienced workers. Risk factors included work-related stress, role ambiguity, and gender dynamics. FGDs revealed underreporting due to absent policies, weak leadership, and workplace cultures that normalized aggression. Workplace bullying remains a significant issue in both sectors in Indonesia. Strong anti-bullying policies, effective leadership, and comprehensive training are essential. Transforming organizational culture toward inclusivity and support is critical to addressing this challenge.

Keywords: workplace bullying; construction sector; manufacturing sector; occupational health; mental health; risk factors (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: A B N P Y80 Z00 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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