Layoff survivors grapple with satisfaction and quality of work as newspapers reorganize

Abstract

Lewin’s (1947) organizational development theory says that after an organization reorganizes and downsizes, it “refreezes” to prechange comfort levels. This study of 2,159 newspaper layoff survivors indicates they perceive that refreezing at this time would be problematic because it would result in a journalism of mediocrity, more focused on quantity rather than quality. In light of previous research, the reduction of newsroom staff also alters the product attributes. In this case it may perpetuate the downward spiral of lost circulation and advertising revenue. The results indicate that for those employees experiencing a decline in trust, morale, satisfaction and commitment, newspapers are creating production-line journalism that is seen as void of purpose and function.