Organizational Crisis and Change

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Abstract
This article presents a conceptual framework for describing organizational crises. Based upon the assumption that a human system passes through several phases as it adapts to a crisis situation, the article describes a four-stage model, beginning with an initial period of Shock, then a period of Defensive Retreat, followed by Acknowledgment, and finally, by a process of Adaptation and Change. The four phases are presented as they apply to the individual in crisis and then are extended to incorporate organizational parameters. This is followed by a discussion of the model's relationship to other known concepts in the areas of behavior under stress, the processes of change, small-group behavior, leadership style, and organizational structure. The article concludes with some implications about the potential use of this conceptual framework as a guide to the organizational consultant.

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