Toward a test of Wheeler's "Integrative Theory" in six union election causes

In the US, union growth ultimately occurs, or fails to occur, at the level of the union representation election. The phenomenon of unionization is examined using data from 6 union certification election cases (3 union wins and 3 union losses) in the US. The study draws upon the "integrative theory" of industrial conflict set out in Wheeler (1985). This theory aims at a broad based understanding of such phenomena as organizing and strikes, drawing upon knowledge from a number of disciplines, and attempts to integrate them into a single model. The comparative case study assessment suggests that a union win is related to employee deprivation, calculation as to union effectiveness, instrumentality perceptions, and attitudes about unions. In general, the results are somewhat supportive of the theory and suggest avenues for future research.