Representations and feelings related to organizational change: A grounded theory study with Italian prison workers

The aim of this research was to explore and conceptualize the adaptation process activated by prison workers relating to the current organizational change that is characterizing the Italian prison system. To achieve the present goals, it has been selected the Grounded Theory methodology (Glaser & Strauss, 1967) with a sample constituted by 121 prison workers coming from four Italian regions (Lombardia, Liguria, Emilia-Romagna, Campania). Results showed many important elements of similarity between the various professionals, despite the difference of role, geographical origin and type of institute. The most important transversal element emerged about the perception of the problems in relation to two main levels of reading, the first concerning the organizational dimension and the second concerning the intrapsychic-relational dimension. Furthermore, elements of homogeneity also emerged in the range of mentioned emotions, often characterized by highly negative connotation.