Power, politics, and Collective Bargaining on Organizational Climate
Striking is a complex issue that can have significant implications for both individuals and the organization as a whole. In the given scenario, as a staff nurse in the ICU, there are several factors to consider when deciding whether to support or oppose the strike.
Firstly, it is important to understand the reasons for and against striking. The nurses in the ICU are facing challenges such as a shortage of nurses, excessive overtime demands, and the stress of working with critically ill patients. These issues can have a direct impact on the well-being and job satisfaction of the nurses. On the other hand, striking can disrupt the normal operations of the hospital, potentially putting patients at risk and causing financial losses for the organization.
In order to make an informed decision, it is necessary to assess the power dynamics and politics at play within the organization. The fact that the hospital has a closed shop, and union dues are deducted from the nurses’ pay even if they are not actively involved in the union, suggests that the union holds significant power and influence. Additionally, the rejection of the management’s last offer and the vote in favor of striking indicate dissatisfaction among the nurses and a desire for change.
To approach this difficult decision, a problem-solving and decision-making skills model can be employed. This model typically involves several steps, including defining the problem, gathering information, generating alternatives, evaluating alternatives, and making a decision.
In this case, the problem is whether to support the striking colleagues or cross the picket line and return to work. To gather information, it would be important to have a clear understanding of the potential consequences of both options. This could involve speaking with colleagues, researching the impact of strikes in similar organizations, and considering the potential financial compensation provided by the union during the strike.
The next step would be to generate alternatives. Given the complexities of the situation, there may be multiple possible courses of action. For example, one alternative could be to support the striking colleagues by joining them on the picket line. Another alternative could be to express solidarity with the cause without physically participating in the strike, such as by writing letters or attending union meetings. Yet another alternative could be to cross the picket line and return to work, potentially accepting any consequences that may arise from this decision.
After generating alternatives, it is important to evaluate them based on their potential outcomes and consequences. In this case, the evaluation could involve considering the financial stability and ability to support oneself and one’s children during the strike, the potential impact on job security and career advancement, and the potential for positive change in the organization as a result of the strike.
Ultimately, the decision must be made based on weighing the pros and cons of each alternative and considering personal values and priorities. It is important to recognize that everyone’s circumstances and priorities are different, and there is no one-size-fits-all answer to this dilemma.
In terms of the number of alternatives generated, this will vary depending on the individual and their capacity for creative thinking. Some individuals may generate only a few alternatives, while others may consider a wide range of possibilities.
It is worth noting that financial stability without a family could potentially influence the decision. Without the responsibility of supporting children, an individual may feel more inclined to take the risk of joining the strike and potentially sacrificing their income. However, this would ultimately depend on personal values and priorities, as well as the individual’s financial situation and willingness to take risks.
In conclusion, deciding whether to support or oppose a strike is a complex decision that requires careful consideration of the power dynamics, potential consequences, and personal values. By employing a problem-solving and decision-making skills model, it is possible to approach this difficult decision in a systematic and thoughtful way. The number of alternatives generated will vary depending on the individual, and financial stability without a family could potentially influence the decision-making process.
