Document Type
Thesis - University Access Only
Award Date
2007
Degree Name
Master of Science (MS)
Department / School
Communication Studies and Theatre
First Advisor
Laurie Haleta
Abstract
This study analyzed employee responses in the recent documentary Wal-Mart: the High Cost of Low Price, looking for evidence of politeness, trust, and humor. The film, directed by Robert Greenwald, gives viewers a behind-the-scenes look into the lives of Wal-Mart employees and their families, as well as the business owners and communities affected (Anderson, 2005). Specifically, six scenes were observed. Statements from Wal-Mart employees interviewed in these scenes were examined for evidence of these concepts. After examining employee statements, five themes emerged and any observation of politeness, trust, and humor was noted and analyzed. Evidence from analysis of the artifact, along with support from the literature review, supports that individual displays of politeness, trust, and humor can affect how a group transitions when faced with change. As a result, themes and evidence of politeness, trust, and humor are described as they are presented in the documentary.
Library of Congress Subject Headings
Wal-Mart (Firm) -- Employees -- Attitudes
Organizational change
Communication in small groups
Communication in organizations
Publisher
South Dakota State University
Recommended Citation
Pallansch, Karie M., "A Content Analysis of Employee Responses in the Documentary Wal-Mart: the High Cost of Low Price." (2007). Electronic Theses and Dissertations. 2096.
https://openprairie.sdstate.edu/etd2/2096
Rights Statement
