The anthropological and motivational dimensions of corruption in the construction industry

Abstract

Corruption remains a persistent challenge in the construction industry, driven by complex socio-economic and institutional dynamics. This study investigates corruption by combining anthropological and motivational perspectives. A survey identified ten variables contributing to corruption, using SPSS-based analyses, including mean scores, factor analysis, and structural equation modelling. The research involved 30 pilot practitioners and an e-survey with 200 participants. Show a positive correlation between socio-economic factors and industry progress, but greed and favouritism do not significantly correlate with growth. Dysfunctional systems and societal disparities notably hinder development. Addressing these issues through targeted interventions could help accelerate progress. Furthermore, leveraging the socio-economic landscape and managing favouritism may promote development, offering a roadmap for industry stakeholders. Focus on immediate measures such as social welfare programmes and minimum wage regulations, as well as long-term solutions that involve structural reform, transparency, equitable wealth distribution, and law enforcement. This study is novel in highlighting anti-corruption strategies for the construction industry in developing countries, particularly Ghana, where prior research has been limited. Its single-case study design limits wider applicability.