| Abstract: | This article describes the process of unionization for a group of public-sector psychologists. After administrative changes in the Circuit Court of Cook County's Forensic Clinical Services increased interest in unionization, the psychologists chose a union to represent them, identified contract goals and a negotiation strategy, and organized a contract campaign to pressure management for concessions. Since unionization, the psychologists have made significant movement toward achieving some of the contract goals, especially with the initiation of the contract campaign. The psychologists also faced and addressed problems related to the size of the bargaining unit, some fears and anxieties among the members, and the slow pace of negotiations. Their experience illustrates how collective efforts, such as involvement in organized labor, can lead to more professional working conditions for psychologists and to better quality care for the public. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved) |
