The Resilience of Sri Lankan construction engineers in adapting to economic crisis : a study of the construction industry

Abstract

This research study addresses the research problem of understanding the factors that influence the resilience and life satisfaction of Sri Lankan construction engineers during economic crises in the construction industry. The construction industry is particularly vulnerable to economic downturns, and it is essential to comprehend the factors that contribute to the well-being and adaptability of construction engineers in such challenging times. By examining the relationship between personal income, health status, well-being, education level, and their ability to adapt and maintain life satisfaction, along with the impact of social relationships and the moderating role of extraversion, this study aims to provide valuable insights into enhancing the resilience of construction engineers. The findings of this research have implications for policymakers, industry leaders, and human resource managers in developing strategies to support the well-being and resilience of construction engineers during economic crises. The population for this study comprises professional construction engineers in Sri Lanka actively involved in the construction sector. Purposive sampling method is utilized, resulting in a sample size of 115 individuals. The survey, conducted over a three-week period, employed Google Forms as an online cross-sectional data collection tool. The questionnaire was disseminated through various online social media channels and professional networks. A response rate of 55% was achieved, with 59 participants providing valuable insights. The research findings highlight the influence of income level, social relationships, education level, and health condition on the life satisfaction of construction engineers during economic crises. Policymakers and industry leaders can utilize these findings to develop supportive measures, such as stabilizing incomes, providing social support systems, and prioritizing access to healthcare and education, to enhance the resilience of construction engineers. This research provides valuable insights into the factors influencing the resilience and life satisfaction of Sri Lankan construction engineers during economic crises. The findings have significant implications for policymakers, industry leaders, and human resource managers in developing strategies to support the well-being and resilience of construction engineers in the face of economic challenges.