THE EXPERIENCE OF UNEMPLOYMENT

Main Pattern

A1 Initial negative reactions to job loss (shock, anger)
B1 Reflection upon job loss (worry, anxiety)
B2 Initial reaction to job loss (relief)
C Acceptance of job loss (determined, in-control)
D Anticipation of job search (hopeful, optimistic, proud)
E Initial reactions to stress associated with job search (pressure, discouragement, fear, anger, desperation)
F Insulation from job search-related stress (apathy)
G Internalization of rejection (worthless, isolated, lonely, drifting)
H Support/retaining (hopeful, understood, encouraged)
I Maintenance of job search (committed, confident)
J Slippage to stress-related reactions (discouraged, angry)
K Re-assessment of self, values
L Levelling (positive, changed)

By Borgen, WA & Amundson, NE (1987). The dynamics of unemployment. Published in the Journal of Employment Counseling and Development, 66,180-184. 

For additional information about the research conducted about unemployment, as well as tactics for moving ahead when looking for work, please attend one of our seminars at the Glen RDK offices. See our "News" page for a description of the seminar entitled "Successful Employment Transition ".