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This research examined the effect of downsizing on the stress-related perceptions and work-related attitudes and behaviors of employees of a school food service organization. A major purpose of this study was to investigate individual level responses according to the severity of the downsizing. The research also examined the relationships between employees' stress-related perceptions and their work-related attitudes and behaviors, and the moderating effect of demographic factors on these relationships. Data for this research was collected from 527 cafeteria employees from 87 campuses of the focal organization. The results indicated that downsizing severity, expressed as the percentage of school cafeteria labor hour reductions during the past year, had little impact on employees' subjective interpretations or their attitudinal and behavioral responses. There was also a significant and positive relationship between downsizing severity and the campus-level productivity, as measured by the increase in meals served per labor hour. The results indicated no significant relationships between perceived job insecurity and employee attitudinal and behavioral reactions. However, significant and positive relationships were reported between employee role stress, as measured through role conflict and role ambiguity, and their work-related attitudes and behaviors. The correlations between perceived job insecurity and selected demographic variables were found to be either insignificant or contrary to predictions. / Ph. D.

The purpose of this study was to: (1) describe the relationship between unit managers' attitudes and practices and the employment status of older workers in a segment of the foodservice industry; and (2) derive implications about the educational and training interventions necessary to facilitate the increased labor force participation of older workers in the industry. Demographic trends influenced the development of this study. The foodservice industry’s heavy reliance on younger workers and reports of potential labor shortages were reasons the study was undertaken. The population consisted of the membership of the National Restaurant Association. From this group a stratified random sample of 480 foodservice units was selected. Data were collected via questionnaires sent to the identified unit managers. The results indicated positive relationships between the employment of older workers and the following variables: establishment of a formal training program; the use of self-paced training methods; and the availability of employment alternatives. Older workers were most frequently employed in the institutional segment of the foodservice industry and in units in which a larger percentage of older managers were employed. Educational and training interventions which would facilitate the employment of older workers were presented. These included: training for managers; training programs for older workers; and employment alternatives. / Ed. D.