Societal status of the dockworker
The societal status of the profession and professional pride of the dock worker differ a lot from port to port which serves as an example of the role of cultural differences in relation to the social position of a specific job. In some ports, job loyalty, and pride are high. In other ports, dock work is being regarded as a very low-status job and perceived of a temporary nature. The public perception on dock workers can range from “overpaid and over-unionized” to “low level job”.
In some port cities, the dock worker profession is only visible to the general public in cases of accidents or strikes, which add to a possible negative connotation of the profession. In other port cities, artwork in prominent places reminds people of the contribution of dockers to the port.