Union Participation Through a Generational Cohort Lens: Improving Participation Across Cohorts

Abstract

This thesis consists of three mixed-method (interview, survey) research papers that share a common goal-to increase our understanding of the extent to which generational cohort impacts union participation and more broadly, renewal. Paper one sets the context for the thesis, exploring differences in attitudes towards and perceptions of unions between Baby Boomers (born 1946-1964), Generation X (1965-1979), and Millennials (1980-2000). Overall, we found that Boomers differ significantly from Gen Xers and Millennials, while the latter two groups were more alike than different. Specifically, Boomers' attitudes and perceptions towards/of unions were typically more positive than those of Gen Xers and Millennials. Further, Boomers appeared to connect to unions on both ideological and instrumental levels, while Gen Xers and Millennials appeared to connect mostly based on the instrumental gain unions can provide their members. Preface At the time of this dissertation's submission, paper one had been accepted for publication in The Journal of Social Psychology (2019), paper two had been accepted for publication in Industrial Relations Journal, and paper three received a revise and resubmit from the British Journal of Industrial Relations. Chris Smith is the first author and Dr. Linda Duxbury (thesis supervisor) the second author of all three papers. Dr. Linda Duxbury provided support, guidance, and feedback over the course of this research project. Our research relationship with Natunion grew out of her network connections, her experience and knowledge helped inform key research decisions, and she provided invaluable analytical and editorial advice. Dr. Duxbury is the sole co-author on the three papers included in this dissertation. I, Christopher Smith, am the sole author of this dissertation and was fully involved in each step of the research. I conducted all surveys and interviews, as well as data preparation, analysis, and discussion in the form of writing up the papers. When citing this dissertation, please include the following reference: