This paper summarizes an empirical qualitative study, exploratory in nature, which seeks to empirically illustrate how certain factors (moderators - independent variables) under the organization's discretion can mediate the effects (dependent variables) of layoffs, on the organization itself, on dismissed personnel and on survivors.The study's method consisted of an in-depth comparative analysis of a 4-case panel, composed of firms that conducted major layoffs in Brazil in the last few years; the study included data gathered (through detailed interviews) from each firm's management, union representatives, community leaders, dismissed personnel and survivors, as well as the structured comparison of such data across the cases in the panel.
Layoffs; dismissal; downsizing; moderators