Perceived Fairness and Coping After Job Loss

Abstract

ABSTRACT Job loss is a major risk factor for the psychological and physical health of those affected. Perceived fairness has arisen as a positive predictor of re-employment after job loss but has yet to be explained by a sound theoretical framework. This thesis attempts to establish such a framework by combining the literature on perceived fairness and coping. Problem-focussed coping (PFC) and Emotion-focussed coping (EFC) are tested as mediators between perceived fairness and re-employment after job loss. In addition, two supplementary studies measure partial links of this construct. Results indicate that PFC is a clear mediator, while the results on EFC are mixed, suggesting a more complex relationship requiring further investigation.