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Abstract

Futurists predict increasing use of temporary systems and hypothesize concomitant stress, strain, and altered role relationships. This exploratory study considered individual and organizational correlates of a temporary system designed to effect change in 24 metropolitan schools. Findings, based on interview and questionnaire data from participating teachers, indicated that performance of a new, temporary role in a diversified role set was correlated with job-related tension. Turnover in the temporary system created a group of perpetual neophytes with accompanying liabilities of newness for the organization. Settings of high turnover were characterized by more role strain among participants and lower productivity.

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Individual and Organizational Correlates of a Temporary System

Abstract

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