Title: Understanding emotional responses to anticipated change: the case of introducing electronic care plans in hospitals

Authors: Fay Giaever

Addresses: Department of Psychology, NTNU (Norwegian University of Science and Technology), 7491 Trondheim, Norway

Abstract: This study aimed to address the range and complexity of emotions involved in the anticipation of change at work through adopting a contextual approach to understanding emotions and change. A qualitative study was conducted to explore nurses| emotional responses towards the anticipated introduction of electronic care plans. Emotional responses revolved around three issues in particular: Envisioning the change process, meeting professional standards in the future, and everyday work situation following anticipated change. None of the respondents reported only negative emotion terms, and they both experienced and expected that their emotional experiences would continuously evolve over time.

Keywords: anticipated change; emotions; context; nursing; electronic care plans.

DOI: 10.1504/IJWOE.2007.013615

International Journal of Work Organisation and Emotion, 2007 Vol.2 No.1, pp.49 - 70

Published online: 09 May 2007 *

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