Social and Behavioral Sciences Commons^™

Communicator Vol. 12, No. 1, Western Michigan University

Communicator: School of Communication Newsletter

In this issue:

• New Alumni Academy inductees announced

• Student collaborations in video media

• Faculty accomplishments and accolades

Exploring Workplace Friendship Through Social Exchange Theory To Reduce Job Stress, Jennifer Ptacek

Research and Creative Activities Poster Day

Stress experienced at work over time can lead to a number of negative outcomes for employees and organizations, including decreased work performance and morale, absenteeism, burnout, and turnover (Jones & Elliott, 2004; Pines, 2002). Positive, socially supportive workplace communication has been found to enhance quality of work life and aid in coping with stress (Sias, 2009). Social exchange theory (SET) offers helpful insight into explaining how work friendships provide social support in ways that mitigate stress and enhance coping ability (Buunk & Hoorens, 1992). However, many gaps exist in the research literature regarding social support among work peer friends and …

Understanding Work Socialization: A Qualitative Study Of A Youth Employment Program, Katelyn S. Sandor

Research and Creative Activities Poster Day

Research Question(s) 1. What are young people learning about work through early part-time job experiences in YEP? 2. What are the everyday practices through which work socialization occurs in part-time work in YEP?