Family identity and short-term organizational memberships

Abstract

This research examines members’ interpretations of family-like short-term organizational groups, identification with the group, and the experience of exit. In-depth interviews with former group members revealed functional, balanced, and enmeshed interpretations of family. Interpretations corresponded with different levels and forms of organizational identification shaped through four communicative processes - bonding, emotional expression, self-disclosure, and defining group experiences. Based on these findings, recommendations for the continued study of short-term membership, identification, and organizational socialization are presented.

Keywords:

• Family
• Organizational Exit
• Organizational Identification
• Short-term Memberships

Disclosure statement

This manuscript is not under consideration with and will not be submitted to any other journal while it is under review with Qualitative Research Reports in Communication. This manuscript is the original work of the authors.