Coping with a Layoff: A Longitudinal Study of Victims

Abstract

This article reports the results of a longitudinal study of layoff victims and how they cope with job loss. We examine whether the perceived fairness of layoff procedures, corporate and government assistance programs, and individual differences influence the choice of problem-focused and/or symptom-focused coping strategies. Our findings challenge traditionally held assumptions about factors that may be associated with successful coping. Specifically, perceptions of the fairness of layoff procedures and adequacy of government assistance programs were negatively related with problem-focused strategies used by layoff victims, and there was no relationship with corporate assistance programs and the choice of coping strategy. In addition, self-blame for the job loss was positively related to a symptom-focused strategy. Suggestions for future research on victims of layoffs are discussed.