LE3 .A278 1998

1998

MacKinnon, David

Acadia University

Master of Education

Masters

Counselling

Education

The purpose of this study was to gain a better understanding of how government employees react to dramatic organizational change. In the spring of 1997, a survey was administered to employees of a government organization in Nova Scotia. Results were drawn from three measures in the survey providing scores on employee burnout, perceptions of personal control in the workplace, and perceptions of organizational change. Quantitative analyses indicated, as hypothesized, that there is a relationship between an employee's perception of personal control and their acceptance of organizational change that is mediated by burnout. Post hoc analyses of survey data also provided evidence that a direct relationship between personal control and acceptance of change exists for employees of this particular organization. In addition to the survey data, four participants from across Nova Scotia were interviewed for the purpose of gaining further insight into issues of personal control, burnout, and perceptions of organizational change. Findings from this part of the study suggested that employees are struggling with the issue of organizational change. Participants provided insights into the impacts of change and what supports are needed in the workplace. Aside from the findings, recommendations on how to deal with issues for this organization are provided in the following study.

The author retains copyright in this thesis. Any substantial copying or any other actions that exceed fair dealing or other exceptions in the Copyright Act require the permission of the author.

https://scholar.acadiau.ca/islandora/object/theses:3104