Analyzing the impact of challenge-hindrance stressors on unsafe behaviors of new-generation construction workers in China

Background An increasing number of studies have demonstrated that the new generation of construction workers is more susceptible to work stress, which can lead to unsafe behaviors. While stress significantly influences unsafe behaviors, the interplay of various stress sources within the organizational system is equally critical. Objective To clarify the mechanisms and impact pathways of challenge-hindrance stressors in relation to the unsafe behaviors of the new generation of construction workers. This study is the first to explore the issue in China's construction industry. Methods A hypothesis model is established based on the “stressors-strain-outcomes (SSO)” framework, examining the relationships among challenge stressors, hindrance stressors, perceived organizational support, organizational commitment, and unsafe behaviors. Data were collected from 312 new-generation construction workers, and structural equation modeling (SEM) was employed for hypothesis testing and empirical analysis. Results The results showed that challenge stressors negatively affected unsafe behaviors, hindrance stressors positively affected unsafe behaviors, and the connection between challenge-hindrance stressors and unsafe behaviors is mediated by organizational commitment. Perceived organizational support positively moderated the connection between challenge stressors and unsafe behaviors. Conclusion The results can provide theoretical support for managing the stressors experienced by the new generation of construction workers.