Review of global mental health research in the construction industry: A science mapping approach
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management
ISSN: 0969-9988
Article publication date: 3 September 2019
Issue publication date: 18 February 2020
Abstract
Purpose
The demanding nature of the construction industry poses strain that affects the health of construction personnel. Research shows that mental ill health in this industry is increasing. However, a review mapping the field to determine the extant of research is lacking. Thus, the purpose of this paper is to conduct a scientometric review of mental health (MH) research in the construction industry.
Design/methodology/approach
A total of 145 bibliographic records retrieved from Web of Science and Scopus database were analyzed using CiteSpace, to visualize MH research outputs in the industry.
Findings
Top co-cited authors are Helen Lingard, Mei-yung Leung, Paul Bowen, Julitta S. Boschman, Peter E.D. Love, Martin Loosemore and Linda Goldenhar. Previous studies focused on healthy eating, work efficiency, occupational stress and workplace injury. Emerging research areas are centered around physiological health monitoring, work ability, and smart interventions to prevent and manage poor MH.
Research limitations/implications
Result is influenced by the citations in retrieved articles.
Practical implications
The study found that researchers in the construction industry have intensified efforts to leverage information technology in improving the health, well-being, and safety of construction personnel. Future research should focus on developing workplace interventions that incorporate organizational justice and flexible work systems. There is also a need to develop psychological self-reporting scales specific to the industry.
Originality/value
This study enhances the understanding of researchers on existing collaboration networks and future research directions. It provides information on foundational documents and authors whose works should be consulted when researching into this field.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
The authors are grateful to the Department of Building and Real Estate, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China, for financially supporting this research. The authors are also thankful to the reviewers for their time and effort in improving the quality of the article through their suggestions.
Citation
Nwaogu, J.M., Chan, A.P.C., Hon, C.K.H. and Darko, A. (2020), "Review of global mental health research in the construction industry: A science mapping approach", Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. 27 No. 2, pp. 385-410. https://doi.org/10.1108/ECAM-02-2019-0114
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2019, Emerald Publishing Limited