What does this research mean for the field?

The transition from discipline-based to issues-based programming in Cooperative Extension creates significant organizational pressure and human resistance driven by perceived threats to individual power positions. Novelty: ClaimNovelty.INCREMENTAL. Consensus alignment: ConsensusAlignment.NEUTRAL.

What question did this study set out to answer?

The aim is to understand the reactions of Extension agents, administrators, and board members to significant organizational changes.

May 29, 2026Open Access

Climate for Change in Extension

Key Points

The aim is to understand the reactions of Extension agents, administrators, and board members to significant organizational changes.
Examined the transition from discipline-based programs to issues programming.
Analyzed human resistance to changes in program operations and power dynamics within the organization.
Investigated the effects of economic conditions and cultural shifts on Extension staff.
Identified resistance to change stemming from perceived threats to power positions.
Highlighted the impact of new cultural values on program planning within Cooperative Extension.
Revealed internal structural changes affecting the relationships among Extension staff and stakeholders.

Abstract

The 1990s are ushering in major changes for Cooperative Extension as National Initiatives become the foundation for program planning, replacing some of the traditional discipline-based programs.As new ideas for program operations are introduced, a natural consequence is human resistance to change.Throughout the system, we're being forced to cope with fundamental changes in the way we do business.The possibility of upsetting the balance of power exists.Individuals will take action based on their perception of how changes will affect their relative power position in the organization.1New knowledge, varying economic conditions, pressures of competition, evolution of new cultural values and perspectives, and a paradigm shift from disciplinary programming to issues programming have had a great impact on Extension.Internal changes-structural reorganization and/or personnel relations-have created pressures on Extension staff.Understanding how agents, administrators, and county board members respond in a time of change is vital to the organization and its continued functioning in the future.

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