Detailed Ph.d Report

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"The PhD is clearly the pinnacle of formal education qualifications internationally, representing
excellence and attracting both resources and prestige to universities”.-Sid Bourke, University of
Newcastle. Australia

For the award of a PhD degree, the evaluation is done, by and large, through the medium of written
reports on the thesis by two external examiners besides the supervisor. The fate of a thesis hinges on
the recommendations of the three examiners assessing the thesis. Written Reports of examiners who
have evaluated Ph.D. these are presented here. This document is a sample which will help the
readers in general and research scholars in particular to know what the evaluators look for in a Thesis.
The key to a Ph.D. lies in the supervisors assisting the students to meet the expectations of the
examiners more effectively.

SAMPLE OF Ph.D. EVALUATION REPORTS OF EXAMINERS
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1. Ph.D THESIS ENTITLED “COVERT INDUSTRIAL CONFLICT IN TAMILNADU: A SOCIOLOGICAL STUDY”

(1) DETAILED REPORT OF PROFESSOR JUGENDRA SAHAI, Ex.HEAD OF DEPARTMENT OF SOCIOLOGY,
KASHI VIDYAPITH, VARNASI, INDIA ON THE THESIS ENTITLED‘COVERT INDUSTRIAL CONFLICT IN
TAMILNADU: A SOCIOLOGICAL STUDY’ SUBMITTED BY Mr.M.S.BABJI FOR THE AWARD OF THE
DEGREE OF DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY IN SOCIOLOGY BY THE UNIVERSITY OF MADRAS, MADRAS
,TAMILNADU, INDIA.

The abundance of literature on workers’ participation in management in India notwithstanding, there
is a marked dearth of investigations/researches that are overtly sociological in examining industrial
conflict in a society which has become intriguingly complex and confusing in its structural and
operational terms. The present Ph.D. dissertation attempts to present a sociological understanding of
the nature and forms of covert Industrial Conflict in Tamilnadu.

Divided in Seven Chapters, the study presents a view that industrial conflict has more than one
aspect; for the manifestation of hostility is confined to no single outlet. Several of these forms such as
sabotage,
restriction of output, absenteeism, and turnover take place on an individual as well as on an organized
basis and constitute alternative to collective action. The study also strives to make out the broad
conditioning context of labour-management relationships with particular reference to covert
industrial conflict. Chapter one and two introduce the subject by way of reviewing some of the well-
known approaches and writings on the subject. Though not very exhaustive, it however touches upon
some core issues with a clear insight into the key constituents of covert conflict. Chapter Three
explains the design of the study, the purpose, sampling frame and mentions tools and techniques of
data collection. The whole exercise has been done with required precision and care. Chapter Four
furnishes the organizational structure of the Company under study. Chapter Five provides the socio-
economic and demographic characteristics of the respondents and their family background. Chapter
Sixth-analysis and interpretation- in fact examines the inter-linkages of variables used with types of
covert industrial conflicts. The researcher has constructed a twelve-point distribution scale of
grievance activity to pin point and make explicit its relatedness with socio-economic and demographic
variables. Most of these variables are found significant with grievance activity. Chapter Seven records

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conclusions and findings which are not commonly placed. The study leads to some very valuable
insights hitherto unexplored.

Though it is a truism to state that social, economic and demographic characteristics are intrinsically
related to covert industrial conflict, or so to say, grievance activity, yet in India where unemployment
situation, seasonal absenteeism and workers residing far away from the place of work leaves little
room for engaging themselves in the participatory activities. Secondly and equally important reason
for the failure of the schemes has been the lack of proper education and training of the representative
workers in the vital areas for effective decision making. Lack of knowledge has led to many problems
that made the system unstable. Workers lacked the intellectual capacity to participate in the decision
making process. The dilemma continues to be whether workers should participate only in the
determination of the physical and technical aspects of their work, or in the organization of the social
system of production as well. Thirdly, trade union organizations have not lent the requisite support to
make these participative schemes successful. In their actual conduct they have acted as an external
body, committed to opposition rather than to cooperation. Thus, the researcher’s observation that by
better understanding of the relationship between the factors of grievance activity and its relation to
patterns of covert of industrial conflict, it is possible to break the vicious circle seems to be an
ideological and impressionistic statement of the situation obtaining in the organizations.

On careful consideration, the researcher seems to have done his labour with sincerity of purpose. The
study is definitely informative and at places very revealing. Methodologically it is highly commended.
The presentation of the findings is alright and argumentation good.

All things considered, the study makes a contribution to the existing stock of knowledge in the
concerned area. Hopefully some of the issues highlighted may lead to serious introspection once the
copy of the thesis is made available to them.

I recommend that the Degree of Ph.D. in Sociology may be awarded to M.S.BABJI after completing
other formalities.
September 04, 1995. Signed: Dr. Jugendra Sahai
PROFESSOR OF SOCIOLOGY

(2) INDIVIDUAL REPORT OF PROFESSOR Dr. FRANCESCO KJELLBERG, INSTITUTE OF POLITICAL SCIENCE,
UNIVERSITY OF OSLO, NORWAY ON THE THESIS ENTITLED ‘COVERT INDUSTRIAL CONFLICT IN
TAMILNADU: A SOCIOLOGICAL STUDY’ SUBMITTED BY THIRU.M.S.BABJI, DEPARTMENT OF
SOCIOLOGY, UNIVERSITY OF MADRAS.

The Thesis of Thiru M.S.BABJI addresses the question of the extent and character of non-declared or
covert industrial conflict in Tamilnadu in later years. Such conflicts are conceived as part of a broad
conditioning context of labour-management relations, the objectives of the study being the following:

1. To estimate the socio, demographic, economic and occupational composition of the industrial
workers who enter into covert conflict;
2. To analyze the factors responsible for grievance activity among industrial workers;
3. To identify the nature and types of covert industrial conflict;
4. To assess the extent to which covert industrial conflict may be seen as a function of grievance
activity.


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The study states two major hypotheses and is also very clear in its operational definitions. The
hypotheses are: 1. There is positive relationship between socio, economic and demographic variables
and grievance activity; 2. Grievance activity is significantly related to covert industrial conflict.

The investigation itself is based on interview data of a sample of 200 workers selected on a random
basis from a population around 2000. The interviews gathered data on the following items:
absenteeism, sabotage, labour turnover, work to rule, accidents, grievance activity, family and
personal background.
Through the seven chapters which form the thesis, we get a broad and interesting introduction to the
problem of covert industrial conflict. The review of the literature in Chapter II shows that the
candidate is familiar with the most important contributions in the field, while Chapter III documents
his fluency with appropriate research methods. The remaining Chapters introduce the reader to the
empirical data, the thesis concluding with a Chapter which succinctly summarizes the findings in
relation to the hypotheses, which are by and large validated.
The strength of the thesis is its richness of information; one knows quite a lot about the conditions for
covert industrial conflict in the area of the study. The reader also gets a good insight into their
different forms. The candidate has successfully made use of his data. Some chapters stand out as
specially interesting. I found for instance Chapter VI with the analysis of the data and interpretation
particularly rewarding. But I would have liked to see a more thorough discussion of how the findings
relate to the general discussion of the problem in the literature and a more analytical stance in the
empirical chapters. They tend to become rather descriptive.

My major objection to the study is that it lacks a more general theoretical framework, in spite of its
discussion of the relevant literature. I feel the interesting issues dealt with in all the empirical
chapters have a potential for more illuminating analysis about the relation between social context
and covert industrial conflict. By exploiting more energetically the literature also in the empirical
analysis, the work would have got a less descriptive stance and a more analytical vigour in dealing
with the various social problems raised in the Thesis.

Given the amount of work put into the Study, its transparent methodological approach and its
interesting findings, these critical comments do not detract from my positive evaluation of it.
Moreover, the thesis is well written. The language being clear and the style limpid, it makes for
pleasant reading.
My conclusion is, therefore, that the thesis submitted by Thiru.M.S.Babji is HIGHLY COMMENDED.

OSLO, AUGUST 15., 1995 Signed. Francesco Kjellberg
Professor dr.
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(3) DETAILED REPORT OF Dr.C.S.RANGARAJAN ON THE THESIS ENTITLED‘COVERT INDUSTRIAL
CONFLICT IN TAMILNADU: A SOCIOLOGICAL STUDY’SUBMITTED BY Mr.M.S. BABJI FOR THE AWARD OF
THE DEGREE OF DOCTOR OFPHILOSOPHY IN SOCIOLOGY BY THE UNIVERSITY OF MADRAS, MADRAS.
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The first and general aim of the thesis on ‘Covert Industrial Conflict in Tamilnadu: A Sociological Study’
is to identify contextual factors that could account for the generation of covert conflict generally
considered as episodic. The second and more specific purpose of the study is to throw light on the
nature and types of covert industrial conflict. The third purpose of the study is to discover what

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partitioning of the total sample in various ways showed about the relationship between contextual
factors and covert conflict.

Making a departure from the beaten track of studying any one of the forms of covert industrial
conflict, the present study focuses on all forms of latent industrial conflict together. In that way, the
study may be considered as a modest maiden attempt to understand the nature and forms of ‘mute
conflict’
and the factors within an industrial milieu which engender such conflicts. Though the study does not
falsify Knowles dictum that ‘absence of strike does not mean peace in industry’, the researcher could
have elucidated ‘which one of the twelve factors so identified gives rise to which one of the five
forms of unorganized conflict most’. Though this observation is not intended to belittle the thesis,
such an effort on the part of the researcher would have enriched the thesis. This particular aspect
needs to be kept in mind by the researcher as and when he takes up the work for publication.

The methodological approach employed by the researcher needs to be applauded. The dexterity with
which the researcher blended the empirical evidences with the conceptual ideas also needs special
mention. His flawless English and lucid expression are an asset to the thesis. My above observations
make me commend the thesis for its being accepted by the University of Madras for the award of the
Degree of Doctor of Philosophy in Sociology.

Insofar as the question of publication of the thesis is concerned, variations in Chi-square values are
seen in as many as 14 tables. The percentage figures in the ‘summary and Conclusion’ Chapter (Page
171 to 175) are at variance with the percentage figures shown in pages 67 to 137. Out of 52 cross
tables, chi square results show significant relationship between variables in 36 tables. Out of these 36
tables, in 20 tables Cells remain vacant. Almost all the readings excepting 15.5 percent relate to
studies published prior to 1980. The bulk of the literature on Industrial Sociology and Sociology of
Work in India and abroad published in the 1980s and thereafter needs to be incorporated. Without
discussing more elaborately my comments on the thesis, the comments are referred by an ‘S’ written
on that page
in the thesis. All marks on the thesis are in pencil so that they can be erased after carrying out the
corrections. The copy of the thesis with my comments is being returned herewith.

JULY 28.,1995 Signed) Dr.C.S.RANGARAJAN
Supervisor cum Examiner
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Enclosure to detailed report of Supervisor/Examiner on the thesis on ‘Covert Industrial Conflict in
Tamilnadu: A Sociological Study’ submitted by Mr.M.S.BABJI for the award of the Degree of Doctor of
Philosophy inSociology.
Sub: Variations in percentage figures and the Chi Squar value noticed in the body of the thesis
which need corrections.
Variations
Page No Table No Percent Relating to Page No Percent Remarks

67 5.7 73.0 Father with 171 68.0
Primary/secondary
Education
71 5.11 56.0 Workers’ having 171 36.0
1-3 children

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73 5.14 80.0 Traditional work- 171 82.0
Manual
80 5.21 82.0 Present position 171/ 86.0
Manual workers 172
85 6.2 ... Level of grievance Table 6.2 needs
activity frequency distri-
bution Table without
which Table 6.1 prima
facie appears wrong.
89 6.7 100.0 Younger workers 172 87.5
with ‘high’ to
‘medium’ grievance
89 6.7 59.5 Older workers with 172 59.53
‘high’ to ‘medium’
Grievance.
92 6.10 96.9 Number of 172 96.88
children
93 6.11 72.7 Size of family 172 72.80
7-9 persons
96 6.14 92.3 Workers’ whose 172 92.3 ‘High’ income of more
Income is ‘low’ than Rs 3000/- constitute
92.3 percent.

97 6.15 100.0 pre.experience 173 ….. should read as 1-3 years
Of more than 1 year
98 6.16 100.0 Change of firm once 173 75.0 with ‘high’ to ‘medium’.

100 6.18 68.75 More than 6 years 173 …. Should read as 6-15 years.
of service It is length of service in
present position.
102 6.20 74.0 Not willing to leave 173 ….. Only 26.0 percent want to
leave which may be termed
as ‘turnover’.
103 6.21 73.8 Migrants 173 Migrants who show no
inclination to leave do not
come within operational
definition.
111 6.29 83.3 Length of service 173 80.0
11-15 years

124 6.42 31.0 Not involved in 174 … 31 percent is shown as
‘sabotage’ ‘involved’.

128 6.46 92.4 ‘Low’ income 174 92.4% of ‘low’ income
workers involved is shown as ‘high’ income.
In ‘sabotage’.

129 6.47 36.8 previous experience 174 36.5 ‘Not involved’ is shown

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of less than 1 year not as involved.
‘involved’ in sabotage.
137 6.55 87.5 ‘Non observers’ of 175 69.5 What needs to be highlighted
work to rule with is observers of work to rule
primary education. who are considered as
engaged in covert conflict.

Read with operational definitions of Covert Industrial Conflict comprising labour turnover,
absenteeism,
sabotage, accidents and work to rule, the Summary and Conclusion Chapter is seen not in accordance
with the definitions. It should highlight the higher percentages of ‘intention to leave’, ‘absenteeism’,
‘involvement in sabotage’ and ‘observance to work to rule’.

Of the 52 cross tables, chi square results show significant relationship between variables in 36 tables.
Of these 36 tables, in 20 tables the cells remain vacant. Only in 16 tables the cells are not vacant.
If a cross table is drawn, it would show the following results:




Position of cells in Results No Results Total
the tables

Vacant 20 2 22
( 55.56) (12.5) (42.3)

Not Vacant 16 14 30
(44.44) (87.5) (57.7)
Total 36 16 52
(69.23) (30.77) (100.0)

Chi square 10.99 df 1 C – 0.4
In addition to the above, variation in Chi Square value is seen in respect of the following Tables:
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Page No Table No Chi square Shown as Correct Remarks
value shown chi square
value

90 6.8 2.86 Not significant 30.3973 Significant
92 6.10 4.43 Not significant 185.1867 Significant
93 6.11 16.16944 Significant 15.6578 Significant
106 6.24 6.46 Significant 111.8045 Significant
109 6.27 3.8258 Not significant 3.9156 Not significant
114 6.32 40.54043 Significant 39.6099 Significant
115 6.33 24.75158 Significant 24.5163 Significant
117 6.35 6.59 Significant 83.4122 Significant
126 6.44 7.847 Significant 6.6569 Significant

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127 6.45 0.19 Not significant 0.1169 Not significant
129 6.47 2.724 Not significant 1.9328342 Not significant
131 6.49 1.49 Not significant 16.257094 Significant
137 6.55 5.03 Significant 112.22222 Significant
141 6.59 2.37 Not significant 49.415203 Significant
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As can be seen from the above, variations in Chi Square value are seen in as many as 14 tables.
When worked out, significant relationship between variables is seen in respect of 4 cross tables
claimed to be not significant. (Tables: 6.8., 6.10., 6.49 and 6.59).

BIBLIOGRAPHY

The break-up for bibliography is as under:

Number of references Year(s)

1 … without citation
1 .. Between 1920 – 1929
1 .. Between 1930 – 1939
4 .. Between 1940 - 1949
30 .. Between 1950 - 1959
42 .. Between 1960 - 1969
73 .. Between 1970 - 1979
17 .. Between 1980 - 1989
11 .. Between 1990 - 1995

Out of 180 references, 15.55 percent relate to studies published prior to 1980. The bulk of literature
on Industrial Sociology and Sociology of Work in India and abroad published in the 1980s and
thereafter
has been ignored. Up-dating becomes essential.

Madras 600005 Signed: Dr.C.S.RANGARAJAN
July 28., 1995 Supervisor cum Examiner.

(4) CONSOLIDATED REPORT OF Dr.C.S.RANGARAJAN,CONVENER OF THE BOARD OF EXAMINERS
CONSTITUTED BY THE UNIVERSITY OF MADRAS TO ADJUDICATE ON THE THESIS ENTITLED “COVERT
INDUSTRIAL CONFLICT IN TAMILNADU: A SOCIOLOGICAL STUDY” SUBMITTED BY Thiru. M.S.BABJI
FOR THE AWARD OF THE DEGREE OF DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY IN SOCIOLOGY.

This consolidated report is being submitted on the basis of the individual reports received from the
members of the Board of Examiners consisting of the following:

1. Dr. Francesco Kjellberg
Professor of Political Science
University of Oslo
Blindern, OSLO 3., NORWAY

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2. Dr. Jugendra Sahai
Professor of Sociology
Department of Sociology
Kashi Vidyapith, VARNASI 221002 (India)

3. Dr. C.S.Rangarajan
Senior Lecturer in Sociology
University of Madras
Madras 600005

Lamenting on the dearth of studies of this nature and considering that the present study is a
contribution to the stock of knowledge, the three examiners have unanimously recommended that
the thesis entitled “Covert Industrial Conflict in Tamilnadu: A Sociological Study” be accepted and that
the degree of Doctor of Philosophy in Sociology be conferred on Thiru. M.S.Babji who has submitted
the thesis.
Convergence in the opinion of the three examiners may be seen when they speak highly of the
methodological approach of the study. All the three examiners in one voice say that the data so
generated have been fully exploited by the Researcher to provide insight into the various forms of
behavior which have hitherto been considered as ‘methodless madness’.

It is the considered opinion of both Dr. Francesco Kjellberg and Dr.Jugenda Sahai that the issues raised
in the empirical chapters have ample scope for their being put to fruitful analysis.

Taking a leaf from Knowles, Dr.C.S.Rangarajan observes that the thesis proves Knowles right,
according to whom ‘absence of strike does not mean peace in industry’.

Dr.C.S.Rangarajan suggests that as a step in the right direction of enrichment of the thesis, the
researcher could have elucidated ‘which one of the twelve factors engendering grievance activity
gives rise to which one of the five forms of covert industrial conflict most’.

Dr.Francesco Kjellberg points out that the study needs a more general theoretical framework,
notwithstanding the researcher’s effort to bring to focus the relevant literature.

Considering the enormous amount of work that has gone into the making of the thesis in which
‘language is seen as the researcher’s forte’, all the three examiners are unanimous in recommending
the award of Ph.D. degree in Sociology to Thiru.M.S.Babji.

Madras 600 005 Signed: Dr.C.S.RANGARAJAN
September 11., 1995 Convener, Board of Examiners.
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2. Ph.D THESIS ENTITLED “SOCIOLOGICAL ASPECTS OF STRESS AMONG WOMEN ACADEMICIANS”

(1) DETAILED REPORT OF PROFESSOR T.K.OOMMEN, CENTRE FOR THE STUDY OF SOCIAL SYSTEMS,
SCHOOL OF SOCIAL SCIENCES, JAWAHARLAL NEHRU UNIVERSITY, NEW DELHI- 110067, INDIA, ON THE
THESIS ENTITLED‘SOCIOLOGICAL ASPECTS OF STRESS AMONG WOMEN ACADEMICIANS’ SUBMITTED

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BY Ms.SUJATA RAMANATHAN FOR THE AWARD OF THE DEGREE OF DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY IN
SOCIOLOGY BY THE UNIVERSITY OF MADRAS, MADRAS ,TAMILNADU, INDIA.
I commend the thesis for the award of Ph.D. degree of the Madras University for the following
reasons:
1. The theme of the thesis is a rarely researched one in Indian Sociology and hence it is an innovative
effort.
2. The formulation of the problem is clear and the execution of the study is neat.
3. The candidate has considerable familiarity with the published work in this area.
4. The data is subjected to rigorous statistical analysis.
5. The presentation of the data and analysis is satisfactory.

However, the thesis suffers from several deficiencies. Some of which are listed below:
1. The review of research simply lists the various studies without critiquing them and identifying the
issues involved.
2. The theme of the study is anchored to role-analysis and yet the candidate is not familiar with some
of the important works in this area undertaken by Indian scholars.
3. The sample (N=125) is too small for a survey analysis of the kind attempted. The quantitative data
collected through interview schedule/mailed questionnaire should have been supplemented by
qualitative data collected through observation and informal interviews. This could have been done
with profit because the candidate herself is an academic. This opportunity is missed.
4. There are far too many tables and quite a few of them could have been dispensed with by simply
verbalizing the data. Invariably the data in the table are verbalized resulting in irritating repetition.
5. The data in several tables do not make any sense unless they are related to some variables. For
example, unless the number of years one worked as an academic is taken into account, the ‘number
of positions moved since appointment’ (Table 4.14) makes no sense. Similarly, the amount of time
spent daily in preparation (Table 5.9) is not meaningful unless related to the number of lectures to be
delivered. These are only examples.
6. The causal analyses presented are often misleading. It is claimed that “…..absence of children
increases stress which is contrary to the common perception” and those respondents who have no
children have greater stress, than those who do”.(p.163).In India, if a married woman does not deliver
a couple of children within an expected time-frame, she becomes an object of stigmatization which
produces strain for her. The point is at what point of time (age, number of years after marriage)
“absence of children” is observed and not simply the absence of children per se. Similarly, if a woman
remains unmarried after a certain age (in India at the age of 40 only one percent of women remain
unmarried) it produces enormous strain for her. Finally, if a woman has several children, lives in a
joint household where she has to look after in-laws too, does not have support mechanisms, such a
situation produces excessive domestic role-density and she would experience stress. That is, it is not a
set of attributes as such (eg. Married, unmarried; having children, not having children; living in a
nuclear or a joint household etc) which produce strain, but the property of the situation in which a
person functions. Further, these statements, also contradicts the presumed positive correlation
between domestic overload and stress. If a woman does not have children, some of her domestic
tasks will be reduced which should contribute to the reduction of stress. This means, domestic
overload per se may not contribute to stress, but stigmatization associated with a married woman
who does not give birth to a child does. This has nothing to do with overloads.
7. Some of the correlations made are not plausible. For example, it is asserted ‘………increased
occupational overload is due to decreased social support’ (p.217). Occupational overload occurs when

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one is assigned excessive amount of work, or a variety of tasks in the work situation. Social support
exists when one obtains the help and cooperation of one’s kin or colleagues. Those who are causing
occupational overload and those who are extending social support are two different sets of persons.
Therefore, the postulated correlation is fortuitous unless one assumes that there exists a ‘conspiracy’
between these two sets of persons! Similarly, it is stated that ‘low’ occupational overload is related to
‘high’ socio-economic status (p231). The statement can mean two things. (i) those with high socio-
economic status are assigned less work in the colleges; an untenable proposition and (ii) those with
high socio-economic status are capable of coping with occupational overloads; a plausible proposition
which needs further probing.
8. The study proposes six hypotheses (see pp 80-1 and 221-2).Of the six “hypotheses”, the first two
are background or domain assumptions rather than hypotheses. A large number of hypotheses can be
worked out on the basis of these assumptions. Hypotheses three and five are not plausible.
Hypotheses four and six indeed are plausible propositions. A hypothesis should be a falsifiable
statement and a testable proposition.
Signed: Professor. T.K. Oommen
21.8.’96
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(2) DETAILED REPORT OF Dr.S.B.MANI, PROFESSOR OF ANTHROPOLOGY, DEPARTMENT OF
SOCIOLOGY, ANTHROPOLOGY AND SOCIAL WORK, SLIPPERY ROCK UNIVERSITY, SLIPPERY ROCK,
PENNSYLVANIA 16057-1326, U.S.A. ON THE THESIS ENTITLED ‘SOCIOLOGICAL ASPECTS OF STRESS
AMONG WOMEN ACADEMICIANS’ SUBMITTED BY Ms.SUJATA RAMANATHAN FOR THE AWARD OF
THE DEGREE OF DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY IN SOCIOLOGY BY THE UNIVERSITY OF MADRAS, MADRAS,
TAMILNADU, INDIA

Based on the overall evaluation of the thesis, I am happy to report that the thesis submitted by the
candidate Sujata Ramanathan be COMMENDED and that the public viva-voce be conducted and
Degree may be awarded.
Overall, the topic of the thesis is worthy of exploration and the author, Sujata Ramanathan, has done
a very good job. The literature survey on the related issues and theoretical arguments are very
satisfactory. The researcher has suggested a number of interesting hypotheses that were examined in
this research work. Data collection techniques and analysis and interpretation of data are appropriate
to the topics under investigation.
The quantitative approach to the concept of Role Overload (with special emphasis on domestic and
occupational overload as major contributors of stress among women academicians) is indeed a
refreshing way of looking at this important issue. The author’s conclusions, based on the research
data, follow the expected patterns, especially the relationships between social support and
occupational and domestic overload and the association between stress and domestic and
occupational overload.

There are some minor inconsistencies /errors in the following areas:

1. Sample size of 125 respondents appears to be very small.
2. Classification of variables and the cut off points for “high”, “medium”, and “low” appear to be
arbitrary (unevenness of intervals needs to be justified).
3. The scoring for social support is not consistent (differential weightage given for answers “yes” and
“No” for different questions needs adequate explanation).
4. Data presented in Table 4.13 and the information (explanation) given under table 6.13 are not
matching (perhaps the figures got reversed).

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5. Some questions are missing from the questionnaire.
6. Minor typographical errors to be corrected.
TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN
I hereby give permission to the Convener (Supervisor of the candidate) to prepare appropriate
questions (to ask of the candidate Sujata Ramanathan during viva-voce examination) based on my
evaluation and the comments given above.
Congratulations and best wishes to Sujata Ramanathan.
April 10., 1997 Sincerely
Signed: S.B.MANI
Professor of Anthropology
SASW Department
Slippery Rock University
Slippery Rock, PA 16067
U.S.A
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(3) DETAILED REPORT OF Dr.C.S.RANGARAJAN, READER IN SOCIOLOGY, UNIVERSITY OF MADRAS,
MADRAS ON THE THESIS ENTITLED ‘SOCIOLOGICAL ASPECTS OF STRESS AMONG WOMEN
ACADEMICIANS’ SUBMITTED BY Ms.SUJATA RAMANATHAN FOR THE AWARD OF THE DEGREE OF
DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY IN SOCIOLOGY BY THE UNIVERSITY OF MADRAS, MADRAS, TAMILNADU,
INDIA.

Masculine pride born of the belief that he could support his wife and children would not have been
brought to its knee but for the increased cost of living and heavy taxation. Such a situation made it
necessary for a ‘two-spouse’ income in order to have a ‘higher per capita quality of life’. Opportunity,
capacity and motivation are the factors which make it possible for an increased number of women in
general, and married women in particular to take up employment.
While longer periods of education and training create man-power shortage, the removal of
discrimination and weakening of social disapproval coupled with increased social awakening provide
opportunities for women in large numbers to throng the labour market and get employed in gainful
avocations on an equal footing with their male counterparts, befitting their qualifications and
dispositions. Labour saving devices have not only ‘unburdened’ the ‘burden’ at the domestic level, but
have also released some women to help install ‘dual-career’ families, thereby ‘burden’ themselves at
the occupational level. ‘A robbing Peter to pay Paul’ situation has thus emerged. Is it a ‘blessings in
disguise’ or the ‘most unkindest cut of all’ for many a woman in a society where ‘tradition’ still rules
the roost? Indian women may be seen as caught in a ‘double bind’.

The ‘domestic bliss’, called a ‘birth right’ is lost by a host of women. Mrs. Sujata Ramanathan, in line
with Drydon’s observation that ‘all happiness that man can gain is not in pleasure, but in relief from
pain’ considers that the social support system partially mitigates if not totally eliminates the stress
which enslaves women.
This thesis on ‘Sociological Aspects of Stress Among Women Academicians’ submitted by Mrs. Sujata
Ramanathan for the award of the degree of Doctor of Philosophy in Sociology contains Seven
Chapters dealing with Stressors and the closely related topics.


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In the Introductory Chapter, besides bringing out the importance of the study, the scholar discusses
the problem she has taken up for the study with much clarity of thought.

Research is ‘retrodiction’ in the sense that in order to extrapolate forwards, looking backwards at past
events and making sense of them becomes an integral part of research. Chapter Two examines the
foundation of the scholar’s study obtained through the review of literature. The respective shares of
those from whose work the scholar has drawn sustenance have been stated in a different part of the
thesis under ‘Bibliography’. The share of the period 1980-1989 (39.78 percent) and 1990-1995 (36.86
percent) obviously is by far the largest. This evidently shows that the scholar seems to have placed
much reliance on refreshingly recent literature. Much credence being given to literature that does not
remain shrouded in the foggy past highlights the fact that the scholar’s efforts are not the ‘blind
gropings of the Homer’s Cyclop round the wall of his cave’.
The Research Design developed in Chapter Three to study problems of stress and the cushioning
which the social support system provides stems from the theoretical anchorage in the works of
Durkheim, Cooley, Thomas and Merton. The description of the methodology is succinct and is highly
readable.
While Chapter Four furnishes a ‘profile of the women academicians’, the core of the research
endeavor may be seen as embedded in Chapters Five and Six. Bringing ingenuity to the fore, the
research makes the raw data speak sensibly. Though it may appear to be a ‘statistical jugglery’
because of lack of qualitative vigour, the rigour with which an unambiguous direction is taken to fulfil
the objectives of the study needs commendation.
The important contribution of this thesis lies in the fact that it is the first of its kind to examine the
factors which engender stress among women academicians and the social support system which
serves as a ‘shock-absorber’.
Looking at the thesis in its entirety, I am left with no option other than to commend the thesis for its
being accepted by the University of Madras for conferment of the degree of doctor of philosophy on
Mrs.Sujata Ramanathan.

I wish Mrs. Sujata Ramanathan god speed.

Chennai 600005
August 31., 1996 Signed: Dr.C.S.RANGARAJAN
Supervisor cum Examiner
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(4) CONSOLIDATED REPORT OF Dr.C.S.RANGARAJAN, CONVENER OF THE BOARD OF EXAMINERS
CONSTITUTED BY THE UNIVERSITY OF MADRAS TO ADJUDICATE ON THE THESIS ENTITLED
“SOCIOLOGICAL ASPECTS OF STRESS AMONG WOMEN ACADEMICIANS” SUBMITTED BY Mrs. SUJATA
RAMANATHAN FOR THE AWARD OF THE DEGREE OF DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY IN SOCIOLOGY.

This consolidated report is being submitted on the basis of the individual reports received from the
members of the Board of Examiners consisting of the following:

(1) Dr.C.S.Rangarajan (Supervisor-convener)
Reader, Department of Sociology
University of Madras, Chennai 600005
(2) Dr.T.K. oommen
Professor of Sociology

Page 13

Centre for the Study of Social Systems
School of Social Sciences
Jawaharlal Nehru University
New Delhi 110067

(3) Dr.S.B. Mani
Professor of Sociology and Anthropology
Slippery Rock University
Slippery Rock, P.A., U.S.A

Dr.T.K.Oommen, a Sociologist of international repute who has several publications to his credit
commends the thesis for the award of Ph.D. degree adducing the following reasons:

(a) The theme of the thesis is a rarely researched one in Indian Sociology and hence it is an innovative
effort.
(b) The formulation of the problem is clear and the execution of the study is neat.
© The candidate has considerable familiarity with the published work in this area.
(d) The data is subjected to rigorous statistical analysis.
(e) The presentation of the data and analysis is satisfactory

Without mincing words, but couching it in a different language, Prof. S.B. Mani and Dr.C.S.Rangarajan
have reached the very same conclusions of Prof.T.K.Oommen.
All the three examiners are unanimous in commending the thesis and have recommended that the
public viva voce be conducted before the degree is awarded.

The deficiencies pointed out by the examiners are minor in nature. The sample size of 125 is seen as
very small by Prof. T.K. Oommen and Prof. S.B. Mani. A sample size of 125 out of a universe of 840
works out to about 15.0 percent, which is considered to be representative in character. Since the
researcher has taken the sample for her study which has some relation to the population, the thesis
does not suffer from any deficiency on this score.
Prof. S.B. Mani reports that the ‘cut-off’ points for ‘high’, ‘medium’, and ‘low’ appear to be arbitrary.
The statistical validity of the ‘cut-off’ points has been ascertained by the researcher before effecting
the ‘cut off’ points. The arbitrariness pointed out in ‘cut-off’ points has to be ruled out.

Though the quantitative approach to the concept of Role Overload with specific emphasis on
domestic overload and occupational overload as major contributors of stress among women
academicians is unequivocally lauded by Prof. S.B. Mani, Dr.C.S.Rangarajan considers that ‘because of
lack of qualitative vigour’, the thesis may be mistaken for ‘statistical jugglery’.

Brushing aside the minor deficiencies, the thesis may be considered as a fine piece of work taking us
on to an ‘intellectual pilgrimage’. The constructive criticisms against the thesis are meant not to
belittle the thesis, but to help the researcher to improve upon and publish the thesis for the benefit of
the posterity.

Chennai 600005 Signed: Dr.C.S.RANGARAJAN
April 21., 1997 Convener, Board of Examiners
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Page 14

3. Ph.D THESIS ENTITLED : “INDUSTRIAL SECURITY MANAGEMENT IN TAMILNADU”.


(1) INDIVIDUAL REPORT OF Dr. MANINDRA K.MOHAPATRA, PROFESSOR OF POLITICAL SCIENCE AND
DIRECTOR,MPA PROGRAM AND CENTER FOR GOVERNMENT SERVICES,INDIANA STATE UNIVERSITY,
INDIANA, U.S.A ON THE THESIS ENTITLED “INDUSTRIAL SECURITY MANAGEMENT IN TAMILNADU”
SUBMITTED BY Mr. D.MUTHUSWAMY FOR THE AWARD OF THE DEGREE OF DOCTOR OF
PHILOSOPHY IN SOCIOLOGY BY THE UNIVERSITY OF MADRAS, MADRAS ,TAMILNADU, INDIA.
This doctoral thesis in Sociology is a research work in the sub-field of ‘Sociology of Organization’. It
involves an empirical study of the working of industrial security management which has been
conceptualized by the scholar as a complex organization. The researcher has used survey research
methodology to identify the attitudinal orientations of the security personnel. He has demonstrated
his research and writing skill through the study. This thesis is a significant contribution to knowledge
in the sociology of professions. It’s findings would be of considerable interest to the future
researchers planning organizational studies in India and overseas. This foreign examiner recommends
the acceptance of this thesis as a suitable scholarly contribution for Doctoral degree in Sociology of
Madras University.
January 8, 1998 Signed: Dr.Manindra K. Mohapatra
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

(2) DETAILED REPORT OF Dr.M.N. PANINI, PROFESSOR OF SOCIOLOGY, CENTRE FOR THE STUDY OF
SOCIAL SYSTEMS, SCHOOL OF SOCIAL SCIENCES, JAWAHARLAL NEHRU UNIVERSITY, NEW DELHI
110067, ON THE THESIS ENTITLED “INDUSTRIAL SECURITY MANAGEMENT IN TAMILNADU”
SUBMITTED BY Mr. D.MUTHUSWAMY FOR THE AWARD OF THE DEGREE OF DOCTOR OF
PHILOSOPHY IN SOCIOLOGY BY THE UNIVERSITY OF MADRAS, MADRAS ,TAMILNADU, INDIA.
The thesis attempts to explore the sociological aspects of industrial security—a much neglected
theme not only in the mainstream of sociology but also in the area of industrial sociology and
sociology of organizations.
The candidate provides a fairly exhaustive survey of the theory of organizations to provide a focus for
his research. This survey of literature also highlights the seminal contribution of Fayol, an important
figure in management studies.
The thesis describes in detail the organizational structure of three types of security management
systems that obtain in Tamilnadu. The Central Industrial Security Force which is a specialized wing of
the State, the proprietary system which refers to the security system managed and operated by the
private industrial enterprises themselves and the contract system in which the industrial enterprises
enter into a contract with specialized private firms offering security services. The data collected from
each of the three types of security systems is analyzed and the specific problem faced in each of them
is highlighted.

Page 15

From the detailed study of the three systems of industrial security management what emerges clearly
is that security is widely interpreted as merely a service which dealt with theft of materials and
documents and with industrial sabotage. The low level of professionalization of the three systems and
the low importance attached to industrial security which is regarded as peripheral to other functions
of industrial production are highlighted in the thesis.
The research work presented in the thesis is competent, but I feel uneasy that the candidate has not
attempted to account for the social and cultural factors that contribute to the low level of
professionalization of security systems. The candidate mentions on several occasions that industrial
security systems need to prevent lapses in security rather than solving cases after they occur. He also
mentions that industrial security is evolving into a complex and specialized branch of industrial
management. Yet, he does not raise the question as to why the industrial security systems are still at
a rudimentary stage of development. To be sure, the candidate mentions the low prestige attached to
security personnel and attitudes of management towards security issues. An adequate sociological
treatment, however, requires a deeper analysis to tease out the underlying world views, value system
and institutions that inform such attitudes.
There is a need to articulate the theories of organizations to which the candidate refers, with the data
he has analyzed. The thesis would have gained in value if the candidate has followed the lead
provided by Fayol’s interpretation of industrial security.
Notwithstanding the comments made above, I recommend that the thesis be awarded the degree of
Doctor of Philosophy.
New Delhi
27.3.1998 Sd. Dr. M.N. PANINI
QUESTIONS (To be posed to the candidate when he defends his thesis in the public viva voce
examination):
 How does the management of industrial security become an aspect of the wider problem of
industrial management?
 In what ways do management-worker relationships pose problems and threats to industrial
security management?
 What are the factors that account for the low level of professionalism in the available security
systems in Chennai?
 Highlight the significance of your study in grasping the nature of social and cultural changes in
Tamilnadu society.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(3) INDIVIDUAL REPORT OF Dr.C.S.RANGARAJAN, READER IN SOCIOLOGY, UNIVERSITY OF MADRAS,
MADRAS ON THE THESIS ENTITLED “INDUSTRIAL SECURITY MANAGEMENT IN TAMILNADU”
SUBMITTED BY Thiru. D.MUTHUSWAMY FOR THE AWARD OF THE DEGREE OF DOCTOR OF
PHILOSOPHY IN SOCIOLOGY BY THE UNIVERSITY OF MADRAS, MADRAS, TAMILNADU, INDIA.

The thesis on ‘Industrial Security Management in Tamilnadu’ submitted by Thiru. D.Muthuswamy is
the first of its kind in the country. It is unique in the sense that no one has so far ventured to work on
a topic of this nature. Apart from this, collection of data requires employment of careful strategies in
view of the strict secrecy that surrounds security matters.

Page 16

Thiru.D.Muthuswamy’s rich and varied experiences as an Officer in Departments attached to the
Home Ministry, Government of India for well over three decades have come handy for him to derive
general trends and processes. Since security in general and industrial security in particular has come
to stay as a highly sensitive and current topic, Thiru.D.Muthuswamy has shown how the missing links
in matters of industrial security could be closed.
While stressing the importance the study assumes in the context of fast changing industrial scenario in
India, the study undertaken by Thiru.D.Muthuswamy proceeds on with the following objectives:

1. To trace the evolution of industrial security system in pre-independence India.
2. To narrate the problems of industrial security system in the post-independence
era.
3. To describe the industrial security system brought about by the Central Industrial
Security Force.
4. To identify the different types of industrial security system in operation in
industrial undertakings.

5. To compare and evaluate the effectiveness of the industrial security system
obtaining in India and suggest measures for the improvement of the same.

The study identifies different types of Industrial Security System such as Proprietary, Contract, Mixed
and Central Industrial Security Force in operation and describes the merits and demerits of each type
of industrial security system.
The investigation is based on interview data of a sample of 166 drawn from the four types of security
system. In addition, the researcher has placed reliance on observation and informal interviews.
According to the researcher, ‘reliance on qualitative data’ has thus led to ‘lessening of the descriptive
stance’ thereby ‘adding to a more analytical vigour in dealing with the problem on hand’.

The thesis is commended for its being accepted for the award of the Degree of Philosophy in Sociology
for the simple reason that instead of being a ‘mortician, all too eager to bury men’s hopes’, Thiru
D.Muthuswamy has ‘assumed responsibilities as a realistic clinician striving to further democratic
potentialities’. This work will definitely serve as a handbook for those who are interested in ‘security’
matters.
My conclusion is that the thesis deserves to be ‘highly commended’.

January 14., 1998 Signed: Dr.C.S.RANGARAJAN
Supervisor cum examiner
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(4) CONSOLIDATED REPORT BY Dr.C.S.RANGARAJAN, CONVENER OF THE BOARD OF EXAMINERS
CONSTITUTED BY THE UNIVERSITY OF MADRAS TO ADJUDICATE ON THE THESIS ENTITLED
“INDUSTRIAL SECURITY MANAGEMENT IN TAMILNADU” SUBMITTED BY Thiru. D. MUTHUSWAMY
FOR THE AWARD OF THE DEGREE OF DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY IN SOCIOLOGY.

This consolidated report is a sequel to the individual reports received from (1) Dr. Manindra K.
Mohapatra, Professor of Political Science, Indiana State University, U.S.A (2) Dr. M.N. Panini,
Professor, Centre for the Study of Social Systems, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi and (3)
Dr.C.S.Rangarajan (Superviser-Convener), Reader in Sociology (Retd), University of Madras, Chennai.


Page 17

Dr.Manindra K.Mohapatra, Indiana State University writes to say that the researcher has
demonstrated his research and writing skills through this study. He adds further that ‘this thesis is a
significant contribution to knowledge in the sociology of professions’. Keeping in view that the
findings of the study would generate more interest to the future researchers in planning
organizational studies in India and overseas, Dr.Manindra K.Mohapatra has ‘highly commended’ the
thesis.

Dr.M.N. Panini, coming as he does from a family of well-known sociologists commends the thesis for
its acceptance for the award of the Degree of Doctor of Philosophy adducing the following reasons:

1) An attempt is made to explore the sociological aspects of a much neglected theme not only in the
mainstream of Sociology, but also in the areas of Industrial Sociology and Sociology of Organizations.
2) A fairly exhaustive survey of the theory of organizations is provided by the researcher.
3) Lack of Importance to industrial security and low level of professionalization are highlighted in the
thesis.
Dr.C.S.Rangarajan (Supervisor-Convener), having come to the conclusion ‘that the thesis deserves to
be highly commended’ appears to be toeing the line of thinking of Dr.Manindra Mohapatra.
Dr.C.S.Rangarajan considers that the work will definitely serve as a handbook for those interested in
security matters. Paying his encomiums, he concludes that Thiru. Muthuswamy has ‘assumed
responsibilities as a realistic clinician striving to further democratic potentialities’ instead of being a
‘mortician all too eager to bury men’s hopes’.
Dr.C.S.RANGARAJAN
APRIL 6. 1998 Convener,Board of Examiners



4. Ph.D THESIS ENTITLED “WOMEN IN MANAGEMENT: IMPACT OF BUREAUCRATIZATION ON ROLE
PERFORMANCE AND PARTICIPATION-A GENDER BASED STUDY”.

(1) ADJUDICATION REPORT ON THE THESIS TITLED “WOMEN IN MANAGEMENT: IMPACT OF
BUREAUCRATIZATION OF ROLE PERFORMANCE AND PARTICIPATION – A GENDER BASED STUDY”
SUBMITTED BY Ms ELIZABETH FRANCINA NEGI FOR THE AWARD OF DEGREE OF DOCTOR OF
PHILOSOPHY IN SOCIOLOGY/SOCIAL WORK OF MADRAS UNIVERSITY.

NAME AND ADDRESS OF THE EXAMINER: Dr (Mrs) A.RAMANAMMA, PROFESSOR OF SOCIOLOGY
(Retd), UNIVERSITY OF PUNE, PUNE 411 007 (Maharashtra:India).

I have carefully examined the thesis of Ms. Elizabeth Francina Negi. Normally studies in professions
are either about women or the general population. The researcher has selected an area of study
which has emerged as an important area in gender based studies, i.e. the influence of gender in the
work place. So naturally she adopted a comparative method to get better understanding of
bureaucratization and role performance at the work place. I congratulate the researcher and the
Guide for choosing a very important area for study. Ms. Negi has used the Adler and Izraeli’s
theoretical perspective of equity and complementary role models which included the societal and
non-societal constraints normally women face and included strategies for the removal of these
constraints.
The Introduction and Review of the Literature is quite exhaustive, almost one third of the thesis. The
literature survey is quite adequate.

Page 18

Sampling frame
Since no list of women and men managers was available for Chennai City, she collected the names of
the managers from the three professional Associations in the city that included professional managers
from Public and private sector undertakings. Women managers of any managerial cadre with a
corresponding male counterpart in a similar position in the same organization, both were included in
the sample. This non-random sampling has the disadvantage of excluding women who did not have a
male counterpart in the organization. This lead to a bias in the sample, since higher positions are
normally single positions in any organization.
The researcher used an interview schedule for collection of data. However, I feel a questionnaire
could have been a better tool of data collection as all the managers are well educated. Questionnaire
would give the respondents enough time to think well before answering the scaling items.

The Chapter on ‘Profile of the Managers’, besides giving the profile, also highlighted the difference
between men and women managers.

The crux of the thesis in Chapter V, which dealt with bureaucratization, role performance and
participation, is a well-organized chapter. Various statistical tests were also attempted to give a
quantitative measurements. The Bibliography is quite adequate.

Some of the negative points noticed are:
 1. Non-random sampling method excludes single post categories at the higher level leading to
biased sampling.
 2. More bias towards public sector managers in noticed in the selection of sample.
 3. Questionnaire would have elicited more qualitative data.
 4. In Part D and E, especially of the questionnaire, wherein one has to use a scale, interview
method will not elicit well thought out response; respondents may answer routinely.
 5. Instead of calling the thesis as gender based study, one could call this as a comparative
study of men and women managers.
 6. The study does not highlight the effect of patriarchy in the family and same type of attitude
by males in work place as well.
 7. The researcher in this exhaustive study failed to give gender sensitive interpretations which
would have enhanced its worth. Instead of this, the researcher mechanically said that
‘women’s perception is negative towards promotion in the organization’. Is this due to the
fear of superseding their husbands in career or discrimination on gender basis in the
organization or fear of facing the challenges or due to dual role performance?

Most of the data are presented as facts but sensitive interpretation in terms of equity,
complementary role models and the functioning of patriarchy is missing.

Since the positive factors offset the negative factors in the thesis, I recommend that Ms. Elizabeth
Francina Negi be awarded Ph.D after she successfully completes her viva voce test. I prefer to get
some clarifications from her at the time of viva voce test.
I congratulate her and her guide for a well-conceived thesis well written.


Place: PUNE Signed: Prof. A.RAMANAMMA
Date : 6.12.1998 Professor of Sociology

Page 19

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(2) CRITICAL EVALUATION OF THE THESIS ENTITLED
“WOMEN IN MANAGEMENT: IMPACT OF BUREAUCRATIZATION ON ROLE PERFORMANCE AND
PARTICIPATION - A GENDER BASED STUDY”
BY ELIZABETH NEGI

NAME AND ADDRESS OF THE EXAMINER: Dr. VASANTHI SHENOY, PROFESSOR OF SOCIOLOGY,
CALIFORNIA STATE UNIVERSITY, SAN MARCOS, CALIFORNIA 92096-0001 (U.S.A.)
EVALUATION OF THE THESIS
In evaluating the thesis which was sent to me, I am of the opinion that Ms. Elizabeth Negi be awarded
the Ph.D. with commendation.
COMMENTS
I would like to organize my comments on the basis of certain strengths and weaknesses of the
submitted thesis.
 1. The topic is theoretically important in today’s world because it deals with the position of
women in what were once male dominated occupations-namely the managerial positions or
in other words the positions in which power and decision making are crucial. This study faces
important issues wherein the bureaucratic organizations have an impact on the jobs of
women.
 2. The data collected were impressive in scope and depth. It would have been helpful to
elaborate on the methods which were used to collect the data. For example, it is clear that the
interview method was used, but it is not clear whether there was cooperation among the
respondents with the interviewer in the collection of data. Did the interviewer encounter any
difficulties in the collection of data? If so what were they? How were they overcome?
 3. The survey of literature is excellent and has relevant studies which have been quoted. But it
seems to have been limited to the chapter two. It would have been of great significance to
relate the findings of the current research to this excellent survey of literature to show
whether it agreed with the authors who were cited earlier and their conclusions.
 4. Regarding the analysis of the data collected, in Chapter Four, it would have been of great
interest and value to correlate several factors:
a) Correlation between the educational level of the mother/father and the managerial level of
the respondents;
b) correlation between the income and the educational level of the respondents;
c) Among the men and women who started work before marriage, is there a difference in the
position of managerial level and income as compared to those who are not married/who
began work after marriage/or with marriage?
These correlations would have added more weightage to the statement that “Familial
background has a more direct influence on the career advancement of women managers than
men managers”.

Page 20

 5. The criteria for decision making and its connection to education and kind of family may
have brought about more understanding of the issues. For example, in the individual decisions
made by women were they more educated, had they started work before marriage etc.?
 6. Although it has been implied that there is a preconceived bias about promotion to women,
it was still puzzling to try and understand that when the educational levels of both the male
and female managers being high (above postgraduate) that only eight percent of the females
see their chances of promotion as being very good and forty-one percent of the males see it as
being very good. Is this because of their education, career field, length of employment, types
of organization? Looking at P.104 the highest employment is in the public sector. If according
to the law, women should not be discriminated against, then it is interesting that there are
equal numbers of men and women in the middle and lower levels of management, yet they
do not have the same perceptions of power or actual promotions.
 7. On the other hand it is heartening to note on P.152 that in the comparison of the number
of people who got promoted vertically there were 44 males and 31 females. But it should be
noted that there are more lateral promotions of females as compared to males. Therefore, is
it possible to conclude that the glass ceiling concept is communicated to women from the
analysis of this table?
 8. The summary and conclusions are very precise and succinct. They focus on the issues which
were addressed and highlight the information which was analysed.
 9. The bibliography used is extensive and has been used effectively. The use of
internet/computer resources which are now widely available would have enhanced the value
and brought in more current research from around the world. It is also not clear that these are
always fully referenced in the main body of the thesis.
 10. The interview schedule is detailed and covers a wide array of interesting information. But
it also must have taken a long time to complete. However it has helped to discuss cause-effect
relationship between different factors.
 11. The Appendix 1 is outdated. It is very important to get current statistics especially when
they are from India and should be easily available and accessible. It is therefore difficult to
compare these statistics with the statistics in other countries of Asia and around the world.
 12. A brief abstract of the hypothesis and main conclusions at the beginning of the thesis
would have given the reader an insight to the findings of the author.
The candidate has done an interesting analysis of an important social issue. In today’s society, with
the changing roles of men and women in education and employment, this research is of great value
and importance. I hope the quest for more information will continue and that the analysis of this
subject will not stop at this point.
PLACE: DELMAR, CALIFORNIA, USA Signed: Dr. VASANTHI SHENOY
DATE : FEBRUARY 14, 1999 PROFESSOR OF SOCIOLOGY

(3) INDIVIDUAL REPORT OF Dr.C.S.RANGARAJAN ON THE THESIS ENTITLED “WOMEN IN
MANAGEMENT: IMPACT OF BUREAUCRATISATION ON ROLE PERFORMANCE AND PARTICIPATION- A
GENDER BASED STUDY” SUBMITTED BY ELIZABETH FRANCINA NEGI FOR THE AWARD OF THE DEGREE
OF DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY IN SOCIOLOGY BY THE UNIVERSITY OF MADRAS, MADRAS, TAMILNADU,
INDIA.

Page 21


The research study undertaken by the student is timely. Since it runs strictly in consonance with the
‘blinker’ in the form of the objectives of the study, it leaves the examiner with no option other than to
commend the thesis for its being accepted by the University of Madras for the award of the Degree of
Doctor of Philosophy in Sociology/Social Work.

The study focuses on the major roles performed by managers dichotomized into men and women and
the kind of participation levels within the corporate environment with its inevitable bureaucratic
features.
The Chapter dealing exclusively with the ‘Review of Literature’ details in an elaborate fashion the key
variables of the study, such as ‘Bureaucratization’, ‘Role Performance’, and ‘Participation’. Besides
being exhaustive, it can be considered as refreshingly recent.
The researcher adopts a theoretical construct which is a ‘hybrid’ in the sense that it combines the
perspectives of equity and complementary role models to advantage. The adoption of such a ‘mixed’
model is so warranted by the subject of the study with a view to bring into focus certain societal and
non-societal aspects.
Though Chapter 4 gives the ‘Profile of the Managers’, a question item in the ‘interview schedule’
regarding the occupations of the parents of the Respondents would have helped the researcher to
find out the extent to which the ‘social origins’ of the Respondents have impact on other variables.

Chapter 5 deals with the ‘Analysis of Data’. The dexterity with which the researcher has pressed the
data into her service shows in unmistakable terms that it has yielded rich dividends.

In the midst of dearth of studies on women, particularly in industrial context, this piece of research is
an ‘oasis’ in Indian social science research scenario. On this score, I cannot help but pay my encomium
to Ms. Elizabeth Francina Negi.
Though it is said that ‘nothing succeeds like success’, let the ‘first but the small step’ of a ‘maiden’
prove itself to be a ‘stepping stone’ to soar into greater heights.

CHENNAI 600090 Signed: Dr.C.S.RANGARAJAN
DECEMBER 01, 1998 Supervisor cum Examiner
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(4) CONSOLIDATED REPORT BY Dr.C.S.RANGARAJAN, CONVENER OF THE BOARD OF EXAMINERS
CONSTITUTED BY THE UNIVERSITY OF MADRAS TO ADJUDICATE ON THE THESIS ENTITLED “WOMEN IN
MANAGEMENT: IMPACT OF BUREAUCRATISATION ON ROLE PERFORMANCE AND PARTICIPATION- A
GENDER BASED STUDY” SUBMITTED BY ELIZABETH FRANCINA NEGI FOR THE AWARD OF THE DEGREE
OF DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY IN SOCIOLOGY/SOCIAL WORK.
This Consolidated Report is being submitted on the basis of individual reports together with the
respective proforma received from the Board of Examiners consisting of the following:
1) Dr.C.S.Rangarajan, Reader in Sociology (Retd), University of Madras, Chennai (2) Dr (Mrs)
A.Ramanamma, Professor of Sociology (Retd), University of Pune, Pune 411007 (Maharashtra State)
and (3) Dr. Vasanthi Shenoy, Professor of Sociology, California State University, San Marcos, California
(USA).


Page 22

Considering the fact that research studies of this nature are far between, all the three examiners are
unanimous in their opinion in commending the thesis for its being accepted for the award of the
Degree of Doctor of Philosophy in Sociology/Social Work to Ms. Elizabeth Francina Negi.
Prof. Ramanamma considers that ‘lack of sensitive interpretation in terms of equity, complementary
role models and the functioning of patriarchy’ robs the thesis of its vigour to a certain extent.
By stating that ‘I prefer to get some clarifications from her at the time of viva voce test’, Prof.
A.Ramanamma appears to be nurturing a feeling that ‘a face-to-face interaction’ with the candidate at
the time of the Public Viva Voce Examination would serve the end of her commendation.
Dr. Vasanthi Shenoy considers that the scholar could have undertaken some more correlation
between several factors in order to enrich the content of the thesis. Dr.C.S.Rangarajan expresses his
opinion in a similar vein.
Dr.A.Ramanamma and Dr. Vasanthi Shenoy share the view that the thesis stops with the presentation
of facts without relating the findings of the current research to the ‘excellent survey of literature’.
However, overlooking all these deficiencies, all the three examiners have taken a unified stand to
‘COMMEND THE THESIS’.
Chennai 600090 Signed: Dr. C.S. RANGARAJAN
March 11, 1999 (Supervisor cum convener)
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5. Ph.D THESIS ENTITLED “ORGANIZATIONAL CULTURE, MOTIVATION AND PERFORMANCE OF
WORKERS IN AN INDUSTRY: A SOCIOLOGICAL STUDY”.

(1) DETAILED REPORT BY Dr.C.S.RANGARAJAN ON THE THESIS ENTITLED “ORGANIZATIONAL CULTURE,
MOTIVATION AND PERFORMANCE OF WORKERS IN AN INDUSTRY: A SOCIOLOGICAL STUDY”
SUBMITTED BY Mrs. S. JAISHREE FOR THE AWARD OF THE DEGREE OF DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY IN
SOCIOLOGY BY THE UNIVERSITY OF MADRAS, MADRAS, TAMILNADU, INDIA.

It is said that ‘culture is what we are’. The question as to ‘what we are’ is shaped by society through
various agencies. It is socialization through which we are made to become ‘what we are’. In any
society where industrialization rules the roost, the educational and occupational backgrounds of
workers constitute the most important socialization variable. With the ‘homogenizing influence of
culture’ which means ‘socialization’, employees learn to ‘internalize’ the dominant standards, beliefs,
values and expectations of the employing organization. The concept of culture is alien to many
manufacturing and service organizations located in India. It is to be appreciated that evolving a strong
organizational culture can help turn these organizations around and eventually make them
competitive. While charity and inequality begin at home, stratification begins with recruitment.
Occupational skills are the most important determinants, which differentiate the social life in a
factory. Even beyond the bounds of belief, it is organizational participation that remains as the most
important differentiating factor in a community. Technical skills of rare variety help one to push
himself up into the lofty horizons of ‘big success’, whereas those bereft of skills get turned into
enthusiastic addicts of monotony. Frustrations and deprivations, which arise out of being a worker get
compounded when one is the sole bread winner. Though we witness the limitless capacity for human

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ingenuity and adaptability, industrial societies continue to remain homogenized victims of a
triumphant technology. It is the type of technology that help shape the organizational culture.

Mrs. S.Jaishree makes a modest attempt to establish a linkage between organizational culture,
motivation and performance in an industry located in Chennai, which she pseudonymously calls
Olivine Industrial Corporation. The thesis remains divided into six chapters. While the second chapter
deals with the Review of Literature in an exhaustive manner, the fourth chapter throws light on the
profile of the workers coming within the purview of the study. The three case studies forming part
of this chapter give a clue as to the nature of culture the workers have imbibed. Pressing into service a
sophisticated statistical technique, Mrs.Jaishree, with dexterity deals with the problem she has taken
up for the study.
The overall analysis shows the realization of the four major objectives of the study. While the chapter
providing the summary and conclusion of the study brings to focus the need to evolve a sound
organizational culture, the bibliography section seems to be more than adequate. Though the study,
as is the wont with any research work, suffers from certain negative aspects, the positive side offset
the negative aspects. I have no hesitation in commending the thesis strongly for its acceptance for the
award of the Degree of Doctor of Philosophy in Sociology.

Place: Chennai 600090 Signed: Dr.C.S.RANGARAJAN
Date : May 31., 2003 (Supervisor cum Examiner)

(2) EVALUATION REPORT

“ORGANIZATIONAL CULTURE, MOTIVATION AND PERFORMANCE OF WORKERS IN AN INDUSTRY: A
SOCIOLOGICAL STUDY”
CANDIDATE : S. JAISHREE
REVIEWER: Dr. DAVID WOOD, DIRECTOR, RESEARCH AND INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, FACULTY
OF ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES, UNIVERSITY OF WATERLOO, WATERLOO, CANADA. N 213

I found the dissertation to be an interesting, well-written overview of the impact of organizational
culture on motivation and performance. I am pleased to recommend awarding the degree.

The following comments are designed to provide assistance should the candidate wish to publish
material from the dissertation:
 The literature review (Chapter2) is very complete. However, it is largely
descriptive and it would be useful for the candidate to express a view on what are
the most important concepts that guided the research.

 A small issue of format. Normally, since the literature review refers to past
studies and research, it is advisable to use the past tense in describing the work.
For example, “……..Weber (1947) saw the value ……” Or Berger (1957) argued
that ….”

 The development of a conceptual framework based on the assessment of the
literature would be a useful addition. The first section of Chapter 3 on theoretical
framework is a start. However, this section is much more of a continuation of the
literature review and it is only on page 70 that a few comments are made on the

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linkage between organizational culture, motivation and performance. Out of all
the literature, has the candidate selected a specific model to guide the research
or developed a new model based on an assessment of the strengths and
weaknesses of previous models? This conceptual framework should be made
more explicit should the candidate wish to publish a paper based on the work.

 The analysis is very complete and detailed.

 The summary is adequate. Again, it would be useful if the candidate could
demonstrate how the research relates to the literature and conceptual
framework in Chapters 2 and 3. Does the research support or disprove previous
work on the subject?

Place: Waterloo Signed: Dr. DAVID WOOD
Date: June 30, 2003

(3) EXAMINER’S REPORT OF THE Ph.D. THESIS TITLED “ORGANIZATIONAL CULTURE, MOTIVATION AND
PERFORMANCE OF WORKERS IN AN INDUSTRY: A SOCIOLOGICAL STUDY” BY S. JAISHREE.
NAME AND ADDRESS OF EXAMINER: Dr.M.N. PANINI, PROFESSOR, CENTRE FOR THE STUDY OF
SOCIAL SYSTEMS, JAWAHARLAL NEHRU UNIVERSITY, NEW DELHI 110067
Ms. Jaishree adopts sophisticated statistical techniques to explore various dimensions of
organizational culture in a private sector industrial unit in Chennai which is now producing a range of
products including vacuum cleaners, floor care products, domestic appliances, mechanical
typewriters, moulds tools and dies and other types of engineering equipment. Ms. Jaishree points out
that the unit, which is a Indo-Swedish joint venture has acquired requisite ISO certification for its
products which highlights a significant aspect of organizational culture of the company.
Ms. Jaishree is interested in those aspects of organizational culture that are related to work and the
management of workers. She focuses on a randomly selected sample of 108 workers out of a list of
240 workers provided by the Personnel Department of the industrial unit. She administered a lengthy
questionnaire to the workers to produce data on various aspects of their training and work
experience, their skills, incomes and their opinion on several statements referring to work and the
organizational norms that govern their working lives.
In analyzing her data, Ms.Jaishree adopts sophisticated factor analysis to identify the factors that
underlie the organizational culture and what she calls the motivational factors of the industrial unit.
The analysis allows for the compression of the variables into the following eight dimensions.
 1. Rewards, Encouragement, Promotion and Sense of Belonging.
 2. Pride and Thoroughness in Work Towards Standard of Performance.
 3. Extent of Influence of Skills, Freedom and Discretion with Feedback for Effectiveness on Job.
 4. Individual judgment, Punctuality and Visible Outcomes.
 5. Productivity Suffers Due to Lack of Planning and Organization and Workers Unsure of Boss

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and Decision-Maker.
 6. Pressure to improve Self and Group Performance and Solving Problems by Themselves.
 7. Job Impacts on Work and Lives of Other People and Encouragement for Initiative for
Organization.
 8. Job Defined and Structured and Workers Satisfied with Organization.
Overall, the eight dimensions identified provide a positive view of the organizational culture of the
industrial unit. According to the workers studied, the management of the unit provides adequate, if
not ample, rewards to the workers, and encourages good work with promotion. The workers seem to
complain about lack of planning and organization and of clean and visible line of authority but they
are happy with the scope given to them for exercising their individual initiatives, with the importance
of their job, with the manner in which their jobs are defined and structured. They also emerge as
proud of their work and seem to be satisfied with the freedom they enjoy in accomplishing their
tasks. Ms. Jaishree also relates the dimensions with each other to draw further interpretations and to
point out the contradictions they obtain. Her major conclusion is that the organizational culture is
highly correlated with motivation of the workers, but motivation, as well as organizational culture is
weakly linked to performance a conclusion that flies in the face of the fact that the industrial unit that
she has studied is reputed for its quality of work and productivity.
Although I reserve my judgment on the methodology as well as statistical analysis adopted in this
work, I am of the opinion that Ms. Jaishree has carried out an interesting statistical exercise which
needs to be encouraged. Hence, I recommend the thesis for the award of the Ph.D Degree.
The thesis suffers from several shortcomings. It is important to inform the candidate that the survey
of literature that she has undertaken resembles an annotated bibliography that meanders without
any direction. The candidate does not provide us information on the type of technology used in the
industrial unit studied. This is a serious shortcoming because organizational theorists point out that
the type of technology significantly influences organizational structure. There is also no evidence that
Ms. Jaishree has interviewed the managers and the organizational strategy they adopt. And a glaring
problem with the methodology the candidate has used is that she takes opinion for facts. Actually,
this study is about the opinions of workers in regard to organizational culture and not about
organizational culture per se.
Place: New Delhi Signed: Dr. M.N. PANINI
Date : 23.09.2003 Professor of Sociology

(4) CONSOLIDATED REPORT OF Dr.C.S. RANGARAJAN ON Mrs. S.JAISHREE’S DOCTORAL THESIS

The answer to corporate success lies in evolving a strong organizational culture. It is in tune with the
changing time that Mrs. S.Jaishree has chosen this problem as her field of study. The fact, however,
remains that permission from Captains of Industry to undertake research of this nature is hard to
come by in Indian context.
All the three examiners are unanimous in commending the thesis for its acceptance by the University
of Madras for conferring the degree of Doctor of Philosophy in Sociology on Mrs. S.Jaishree.
Prof. David Wood and Dr.C.S.Rangarajan commend the thesis highly. While Dr.M.N. Panini
commends the thesis, he considers that an interesting statistical exercise undertaken by Mrs.

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S.Jaishree not only needs to be encouraged, but also makes him recommend the thesis for the award
of the Ph.D degree.
Both Prof. David Wood and Dr.C.S.Rangarajan look at the review of literature as very complete. All
the three examiners take a unified stand in viewing the analysis as very complete and detailed.

The shortcomings pointed out by Prof. David Wood and Prof. M.N. Panini, as suggested by them, do
require a relook by the candidate at the time of publication of the thesis at a later point of time. The
demerits pale into insignificance in the face of the merits of the thesis. It is certainly merits of the
thesis that has made all the three examiners quiver with the same wavelength in recommending the
thesis for the award of the Ph.D. degree.

Chennai 600090 Signed: Dr.C.S.RANGARAJAN
October 14, 2003 Convener,Board of Examiners
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