| Using a constructivist grounded theory approach (Charmaz, 2006), this qualitative study examined how 8 female senior-level professionals employed at faith-based colleges and universities processed and navigated the experience of involuntary job loss and successfully transitioned to another position. The purpose of this research was to contribute to the field of positive psychology. As such, the theoretical framework of psychological capital (PsyCap; Luthans, Youssef, & Avolio, 2007) was foundational in creating the interview protocol. Questions were designed by the researcher to reveal if indicators of the 4 PsyCap capacities of hope, self-efficacy, resiliency, or optimism were evident in women's responses. Analysis of these findings revealed that PsyCap capacities were present yet supported and propelled by 2 central tenets---the participants' expression of faith (Pargament & Mahoney, 2009) and the ethic of care, based on the ethic of care theory introduced and developed by Noddings (1984). In addition, all of the participants recognized an atmosphere of supportive relationships and acknowledged that the encouragement and love extended by family, friends, and colleagues contributed to their ability to move forward. Results from this study suggest that spirituality is a viable capacity to be considered by proponents of the PsyCap construct. Recommendations include broadening this same study to women who do not work at faith-based colleges and universities, as well as extending the study to include men to gain a clearer understanding of the gender differences that may arise between males and females in navigating the experience of involuntary job loss. |
