Multi-level influences on the evolution of unethical behavior amongst longshoremen in France

Abstract

In this paper, we build theory about how the taken-for-granted nature of certain unethical workplace behaviors evolves over time. A qualitative study of longshoremen in two major ports across the south of France revealed how a trifecta of cross-level factors combine to create an ideal setting for unethical conduct. Data collected from 47 interviewees either longshoremen or working in direct contact with them (foremen, port officials and ship owners) found that profession level factors (changing ideologies), group level factors (beliefs around power and exclusion) and individual level factors (little reputational concern, and ease of misconduct) resulted in a workplace where engagement in certain unethical behaviors (e.g. theft, violence, work stoppage) was normalized. However, we find that as organizational, group, and individual level factors evolved, certain of these unethical behaviors became unacceptable (e.g. theft, damaging workplace materials, and extreme violence) while others became newly adopted and increasingly normalized (e.g. claiming double pay, faking sick leave, shirking). Our findings contribute to a more nuanced understanding of how unethical norms around specific acts of misconduct are sustained, developed, and dismantled.