Identification in Organizations with Multiple Identity Claims: The Role of Identity Claims of a Multiethnic Church
in the Organizational Identification Process of Its Members
Open AccessAbstract of DissertationIdentification in Organizations with Multiple Identity Claims:The Role of Identity Claims of a Multiethnic Church in the Organizational Identification Process of Its Members The purpose of this research study was to examine the organizational identification process specifically in relationship to how a member identifies with the organizational identity claims in an organization in which he or she is a member. This study specifically sought to understand the members' identification with each of the identity claims or a subset of the claims of an organization over time. The primary research question that guided the study was as follows: "How does organizational identification emerge over time in a multiethnic organization with multiple identity claims?" The study took place in a local multiethnic church. A qualitative case study method was employed as 16 church members were interviewed in order to understand the individual nature of their identification process. The study found that as organizational identification emerged, participants responded to a set of multiple identity claims in a hierarchical manner. This resulted in the participants emerging with a primary identification to one of the organizational claims and a secondary identification to the reminder of the organizational claims. The study also found that the search for a church based on identity claims had an effect on the timeframe for identification, and the presence of faith was a significant influencer in the identification process. This study helps to foster an understanding of the process of member choice to identify with the organizational claims as a subset of claims or the shifting hierarchy of organizational identity claims in the process. The implication of multiple identity claims and varied identification to specific claims ultimately calls into question the nature of the definition of organizational identification. These implications also extend to the members themselves as they seek to identify or understand their sense of belonging to the organization.
- All rights reserved
Notice to Authors
If you are the author of this work and you have any questions about the information on this page, please use the Contact form to get in touch with us.