Understanding the Emergence of Ill-being at Work in a Post-colonial Context: A Qualitative Analysis

Abstract

Little is known about how ill-being at work is produced in a post-colonial context. In this study, we explore this process through the lens of Critical Theory, examining the interplay between heteronomous obedience and the politicization of belonging in a multinational company in Pakistan. Drawing on data from 33 interviews, we trace the production of ill-being as employees navigate pressures to conform via (i) mimicking behaviours, (ii) gendering obedience and (iii) concealing their values and identities. Our findings reveal that ill-being is shaped by the hybrid dynamics of global corporate progressiveness and deeply ingrained local `Seth’ culture. This negotiation results in internal conflicts, reinforcing feelings of inadequacy, guilt and isolation, particularly as socio-cultural and gender norms complicate belonging in the workplace. By integrating our findings with the literature, we offer new insights into the production of ill-being in non-Western settings and highlight future research directions.