This study critically examines the institutionalization of humanities concerns within ESG operations, particularly regarding employee psychological health in Hong Kong. In recent years, ESG initiatives have been forcefully implemented through measures such as social policies, auditing requirements, and corporate image-building practices, aiming to present governments and corporations as more humane in response to increasing concerns about mental and psychological health. However, this institutionalization raises questions about the genuine commitment to human well-being versus mere compliance with corporate metrics. Rather than addressing workplace stress through individual listening and negotiation, companies often deploy generic programs focused on achieving output-based KPIs economically and efficiently. This approach can inadvertently increase employee burdens, as individuals are required to participate in activities designed to meet KPIs, even during holidays, without alleviating their actual job responsibilities. To investigate this issue, we conducted an online survey with 413 full-time employees from various sectors in Hong Kong. The findings reveal that various stress factors significantly contribute to negative emotions at work. Notably, the availability of generic psychological health programs and activities does not lessen the problem but correlates with increased negative emotions, while personalized interactions and negotiations between employees and management tend to mitigate these feelings. This study underscores the need for a critical evaluation of social discourses on ESG, and for companies to rethink their psychological health strategies by prioritizing individualized support with human interaction over education programs that advocate generic solutions, in order to effectively and genuinely enhance employee psychological well-being.

Authors:
Pui Ha Chau, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
Pui Ki Kong, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
Sui Ying Ho, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
Oi Lam Kwok, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
Tsz Ting Lai, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
Yin Lam Ng, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong

About the Presenter(s)
Ms. Chau Pui Ha, Kelly, and Ms. Kong Pui Ki, Karen are currently postgraduate students at the Faculty of Social Science at The Chinese University of Hong Kong.

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