Common Mistake: Some People Aren’t Accepting the Change—Is It Time for Punitive Reinforcement?
Common Challenge: Misinterpreting Slow Adoption as Defiance
Quick Summary
When a portion of your workforce adopts the change while others lag, it’s tempting to think it’s time to get tough. But using punitive measures to force change can backfire—damaging trust, increasing resistance, and harming long-term adoption. Here’s why a more strategic approach pays off.
The Challenge
Leaders may grow impatient when change isn’t universally embraced. They might ask: “Do we need to get stricter to drive compliance?” But compliance is not commitment—and coercion erodes both morale and performance.
Punitive reinforcement (e.g., calling people out, linking performance reviews to immediate compliance, or threatening consequences) might produce short-term movement—but rarely leads to lasting, willing change.
Why It Matters
People don’t resist change out of spite—they resist what they perceive as risk. If adoption is lagging, the right question isn’t, “How do we punish noncompliance?”—it’s, “What are the risks or barriers standing in the way?”
The LaMarsh Perspective
The Managed Change™ Model encourages leaders to see resistance as a risk signal, not an act of defiance. Rather than forcing change, the model focuses on understanding and mitigating the causes of resistance. That means:
- Engaging directly with those struggling to adopt
- Exploring perceived risks (e.g., loss of competence, identity, influence)
- Providing targeted reinforcement, support, and role modeling
What to Do Instead
- Diagnose Before You Act
Use tools like stakeholder risk assessments to uncover real concerns. - Double Down on Reinforcement
Celebrate early adopters and make their success visible. - Coach, Don’t Coerce
Work one-on-one with individuals or groups facing barriers. - Model and Mentor
Ensure leaders at all levels demonstrate the change and support it visibly. - Measure and Adjust
Monitor adoption rates and adjust support plans based on data—not emotion.
Pro Tip
Punishment may produce movement—but understanding produces momentum. Invest in support, not fear.
Wrap-Up & CTA
When adoption stalls, punitive reinforcement might seem tempting—but it’s rarely the answer. The LaMarsh Managed Change™ Model equips you to respond with insight, empathy, and effectiveness.
Want help managing resistance the right way? Contact us or Join our next Managed Change Workshop.
