Helsefremmende Arbeid: En kvalitativ studie av HR-lederes perspektiv på hvordan og hvorfor norske kunnskapsbedrifter kan og bør bli mer helsefremmende

Abstract

This study aims to investigate how and why Norwegian knowledge-based companies can and should work to become more health-promoting, from the perspective of HR leaders. Knowledge-based companies are characterized by relatively sedentary office workers, which outlines the target group of this study. The theoretical foundation of this study draws upon literature on Human Resource Management (HRM), health, and health promotion in the workplace. The main theoretical frameworks utilized include motivation, particularly the Self-Determination Theory, as well as theories concerning mental and physical health, in addition to salutogenesis. Furthermore, theories related to health-promoting workplaces, leadership, settings, policies, and empowerment are also employed. The research was conducted using a qualitative method and an inductive approach, with an overarching empirical phenomenological perspective. Seven semi-structured interviews were held with HR leaders from seven different companies. The data gathered from these interviews was transcribed and carefully coded. Through a comprehensive thematic analysis, this study identifies four aggregated dimensions of how companies can become more health-promoting, and one aggregated dimension of why companies should become more health-promoting. These dimensions include: 1) creating a health-promoting workplace, 2) developing health-promoting leaders, 3) facilitating good mental health, 4) facilitating good physical health, and 5) understanding the motives behind this health promotion work. Throughout the discussion, this study shows that HR leaders play a crucial role in creating a health-promoting workplace, and their perspectives and approaches are essential for understanding how this work is carried out in practice. The study provides new insights that may be valuable for HR departments and organizations looking to promote the health of their employees. Hence, this demonstrates how both the field of health promotion work, and the field of HRM, are constantly evolving and expanding.