Abstract:
The purpose of this study was to explore workplace deviance, both constructive and
destructive deviance, in order to understand and develop strategies that could be
used to address different types of deviant behaviours amongst farm workers.
Qualitative, explorative and descriptive research designs within the paradigm of
constructivism were utilised to obtain rich and valuable data with regards to the
participants’ views, experiences and meanings relating to workplace deviance,
through a narrative approach to inquiry. Semi-structured interviews, using a critical
incident technique, were employed in order to collect data on both constructive
deviant behaviour and destructive deviant behaviour of farm workers from the
research participants. Farm workers (n=30) and supervisors (n=9) from three farms
belonging to the same conglomerate participated in the study. Thematic analysis
was used to analyse the collected narrative data on farm workers’ workplace
deviance. The study highlighted that both forms of workplace deviance, namely;
constructive and destructive workplace deviance, seem to exist amongst farm
workers. The various forms of constructive deviant and destructive deviant
behaviours, which farm workers were more likely to engage in were identified. The
constructive deviant behaviours were found to assist the farms in realising their
objectives, while the destructive deviant behaviours seemed to negatively jeopardise
the wellbeing of the farms. The managerial strategies which could be used in the
farming sector in order to manage workplace deviance in a more holistic manner
were identified. These included practices to encourage workers to engage in
constructive deviant behaviours, while discouraging them from engaging in
destructive deviant behaviours. The managerial practices revealed in this study may
assist farm management to manage farm workers in such a way that may enhance
the farms’ competitiveness.
KEY CONCEPTS
Workplace deviance; Destructive deviant behaviour; Constructive deviant behaviour;
Farming sector; Farm workers.
