Theories of Collective Bargaining:

1. Unitarist Theory: This theory assumes that there is a single source of authority within an organization, and that all members share a common set of goals. In this view, conflicts are seen as disruptive and should be minimized.
2. Pluralist Theory: This theory acknowledges that different groups within an organization may have different interests and goals. It recognizes the legitimacy of different interest groups, including unions, and aims to manage conflicts through negotiation and compromise.
3. Marxist Theory: This theory views collective bargaining as a tool for managing class conflict. It asserts that the interests of labor and capital are fundamentally opposed, and that collective bargaining is a means for workers to assert their rights and gain concessions from employers.

Importance of Collective Bargaining:

1. Balancing Power: It provides employees with a collective voice, helping to balance the power dynamic between employers and workers.
2. Conflict Resolution: It offers a structured and organized way to resolve disputes and conflicts in the workplace, reducing the likelihood of strikes or other disruptive actions.
3. Improving Working Conditions: Through negotiations, employees can seek improvements in wages, benefits, working hours, health and safety standards, and other conditions of employment.
4. Job Security: Collective bargaining agreements often include provisions for job security, providing stability and peace of mind for employees.

Hindrances of Collective Bargaining:

1. Resistance from Employers: Some employers may be resistant to the idea of collective bargaining due to concerns about increased costs, loss of control, or ideological opposition to unions.
2. Legal Restrictions: In some countries, there may be legal restrictions on the formation and activities of labor unions.
3. Economic Conditions: During economic downturns, employers may be less inclined to engage in collective bargaining, as they may face financial constraints.
4. Lack of Trust: If there is a history of mistrust between labor and management, it can hinder effective collective bargaining.

Scope of Collective Bargaining:

1. Wages and Benefits: This includes negotiations over salary scales, wage increases, bonuses, overtime rates, health insurance, retirement benefits, and other monetary compensation.
2. Working Conditions: This covers issues like working hours, rest breaks, leave policies, and workplace safety.
3. Grievance Handling: The process for resolving disputes and grievances that arise in the workplace.
4. Job Security: Provisions related to layoffs, downsizing, and job protections.

Issues in Collective Bargaining:

1. Stalemates and Deadlocks: Negotiations can reach impasses when both parties are unable to find common ground.
2. Conflict of Interests: The conflicting interests of employers and employees can lead to disagreements over issues like wages, benefits, and working conditions.
3. Legal Compliance: Ensuring that the terms of the collective bargaining agreement comply with legal regulations can be a complex issue.

Growth and Reasons for Collective Bargaining:

1. Improved Conditions: Employees seek collective bargaining to improve their working conditions, secure better wages and benefits, and ensure job security.
2. Voice and Representation: It provides employees with a collective voice, allowing them to participate in decisions that affect their working lives.
3. Conflict Resolution: It offers a structured process for resolving disputes, reducing the likelihood of strikes or other disruptive actions.
4. Legal Protections: Collective bargaining agreements can provide legal protections for employees, ensuring that their rights are upheld.
5. Social and Economic Changes: Changes in society, such as increased awareness of labor rights, economic shifts, and evolving employment practices, can drive the need for collective bargaining.

Remember, the effectiveness and implementation of collective bargaining can vary depending on legal frameworks, industry norms, and cultural factors in different regions and industries.