Risk and Causative Factors of Psychological Harm Among Construction Workers: A Systematic Review.

Abstract

Background: The construction industry, known for its high-risk environment, increasingly acknowledges the psychological risks to workers. Despite well-documented physical hazards, mental health challenges within this workforce have garnered attention. This systematic review provides a scholarly synthesis of literature on psychological risks and their causative factors affecting construction workers, adhering to PRISMA protocols.

Methods: An exhaustive literature search was conducted across PubMed, Scopus, PsycINFO, and Google Scholar using relevant keywords. Rigorous screening of selected studies focused on the psychological aspects of construction work, with systematic data extraction and analysis.

Findings: From 1992 to 2022, 68 studies met inclusion criteria, identifying key psychological harm factors: job insecurity, long working hours, high demands, poor work-life balance, and workplace bullying. A lack of mental health support and awareness in the sector was noted, with a significant correlation between these factors and increased stress, anxiety, and depression levels among workers.

Conclusions: The review highlights the urgent need for industry recognition of psychological hazards and the relationship between work conditions and mental health issues. It calls for supportive policies, awareness programs, and counseling services, with a suggestion for future longitudinal research on the long-term impacts and intervention efficacy.

Application to practice: This study provides an overview of psychological risks in the construction sector from 1994 to 2022, aiming to identify causative factors for mental health issues. It seeks to pave the way for targeted interventions and policy changes to improve mental health outcomes in the industry.