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The Methodological Challenges of Measuring the Duration of Strikes: Insights From Canada 1960–2024

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  • Andy Hodder

Abstract

This article examines the methodological challenges involved with measuring the duration of strikes. On the one hand, several studies opt to calculate the average ‘duration’ of stoppages by dividing the number of working days lost by the maximum number of employees involved in work stoppages. On the other hand, many other studies use an average measure of the duration of strikes calculated by either using the arithmetic mean or median number of strike days taken across all strikes in a given period. While both measures have their use, they fundamentally measure different things. This article aims to theoretically explain the important difference between these two measures of strike duration, before presenting empirical arguments in favour of studying these measures of duration separately (primarily drawing on official strike data from Canada, 1960–2024).

Suggested Citation

  • Andy Hodder, 2026. "The Methodological Challenges of Measuring the Duration of Strikes: Insights From Canada 1960–2024," Industrial Relations Journal, Wiley Blackwell, vol. 57(1), pages 111-124, January.
    • Handle: RePEc:bla:indrel:v:57:y:2026:i:1:p:111-124
    DOI: 10.1111/irj.70017
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    References listed on IDEAS

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