Accident Proneness (Unfallneigung): A Classic Case of Simultaneous Discovery/Construction in Psychology

Abstract

ArgumentUsing a striking example from the history of applied psychology, the concept of accident proneness, this paper suggests that historians of science may still find viable the idea of simultaneous discovery or construction of a scientific idea. Accident proneness (Unfallneigung) was discovered independently in Germany and in Britain during the period of World War I. Later on, in 1926, the idea was independently formulated and named in both countries. The evidence shows not only striking simultaneity but true novelty and commensurateness of the two formulations that crystallized at the same time in parallel, but distinctly separate, settings.

Risk factors for non-fatal occupational injuries among construction workers: A case–control study

“…Past history of injuries (OR: 6.6; 95% CI: 2.2–20.0) was more frequently reported by injured than non-injured construction workers. This can be explained by the hypothesis of accident proneness (Burnham, 2008) and that they might share unsafe workplaces.…”

Effects of Occupational Health Management Practices on Employee Productivity Among Food and Beverage Manufacturing Firms in Uasin Gishu County, Kenya

“…Certain personality traits, such as impulsivity, risktaking, or a lack of attention, are thought to increase the likelihood of being involved in an accident (Johnson, 1946). According to the theory, people who have been in accidents are more likely to have more accidents (Burnham, 2008). According to Reason (1990), accident proneness is not just about the individual, but also about the interaction between the individual and their environment.…”