PHRO Organizational Change Study

This study explores the effects of organizational change within the public sector, particularly in high-reliability environments, using a case study from a Dutch air force squadron. It applies conservation of resources theory to suggest that change induces stress and negative feelings, hindering adjustment and effectiveness post-change. Data collected over three surveys showed that negative reactions to change lead to increased work role overload and errors. However, a strong sense of normative commitment to the change—feeling obligated to support it—helped lessen these negative impacts. The research aims to deepen understanding of change processes in high-reliability public organizations and offer insights for both theory and practical implementation.