What does resistance to change refer to?

Resistance to change refers specifically to the reluctance or opposition that individuals or groups demonstrate when faced with new changes or transitions within an organization. This phenomenon arises for various reasons, including fear of the unknown, discomfort with new processes, loss of control, or a belief that the change may not improve the current situation. Recognizing resistance is crucial in change management because understanding the root causes can help in developing strategies to address concerns and facilitate smoother transitions.

In contrast, the other options reflect positive aspects of change management. Support and encouragement from stakeholders plays a pivotal role in easing transitions, while the acceptance of new processes signifies a successful adaptation. Similarly, successfully implementing a change process is a key goal of change management. However, the focus of the question is specifically on what resistance entails, making the correct answer the one that directly addresses this opposition or reluctance to change.