Occupational Identity Shocks and Coping Strategies

Reorganization of Meanings Related to Self among Indonesian Nurse Candidates in Japan

Abstract

This study examined the process by which nine Indonesian nurse candidates in Japan coped with threats to their occupational identity. Data were collected via semi-structured interviews on how participants reorganized the meanings related to themselves as a result of the challenges associated with their new status. The results indicate that participants suffered from negative feelings surrounding their demotion -- symbolized by their uniforms and name plates -- from the status of "nurse" in Indonesia, to their current status of "nurse’s aide". These negative feelings were strong among those who felt committed to the profession. To resolve these negative feelings, participants reorganized the meanings related to their identity. By accepting their status as "nurse's aides" they were able to view themselves as "candidates for the national nursing exam" and to focus on passing this exam. Our study suggests that cultural contact renders one’s occupational identity unstable and indicates that this identity is restabilized by reorganizing the meanings related to the self and changing the standards by which, and the domains in which, self-efficacy is evaluated.