Date

11-13-2024

Department

School of Behavioral Sciences

Degree

Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology (PhD)

Chair

Tamra Rasberry

Keywords

socialization, turnover intention, long-term care, elderly, caregiver, assisted living

Disciplines

Psychology

Abstract

Retention of newly hired staff is a critical issue for organizations, specifically those in the long-term care profession. Post-pandemic staffing shortages in this sector of the healthcare continuum have significantly increased the importance of retaining new employees. Previous research on socialization tactics on turnover intentions has demonstrated the importance of employee relationships within the workplace but has failed to address the critical onboarding phase of a newly hired employee. In this qualitative phenomenological research study, the impact of peer socialization during the first 90-days of employment on caregiver turnover intention within the long-term care profession is examined. Research questions are addressed through a convenience sample of 17 newly hired employees who work in assisted living facilities that care for elderly people. Results describe the phenomenon of a new caregiver in the long-term care profession and how socialization with incumbent peers affects their turnover intention. Based on research findings, opportunities for organizations to improve retention rates by highlighting specific socialization tactics of newly hired caregivers are recommended.

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