Adult Learning Following Job Loss in Mid-Career Workers

Abstract

Critical theory, social constructivism and transformative learning were used to examine how and in what ways mid-career workers who experience job loss learn how to acquire new passion forlife through their work. Findings of this study were that participants who lost their jobs found new passion in life through work because they were able to construct their identities independent of the hegemonic influences of corporate managers. The implication of this study is that adult education can be used to help people redefine their self-concepts and social concepts, following job loss, and that both of these can lead to positive social change.