What may occur if workers' needs are not met during organizational change?

• A. Increased motivation and job satisfaction
• B. Stronger team cohesion
• C. Higher compliance with policies
• D. Absences, resignations, reduced quality and quantity of work, and sabotage of change

Answer: (D)

When workers' needs are not met during organizational change, resistance and disengagement tend to rise, leading to a cascade of negative behaviors and performance issues. If concerns about job security, clarity, involvement, training, or fair treatment aren’t addressed, employees may withdraw—calling in sick more often, resigning, or showing reduced effort and quality in their work. Some may even undermine the change as a way to push back against uncertainty and frustration. This combination of absences, turnover, lower output, and potential sabotage is the natural consequence of unmanaged change where people feel unsupported. In contrast, when needs are addressed—clear communication, participation in the process, adequate training, and assurance of job security—motivation stays higher, teams stay cohesive, and compliance behaviors improve.