People resist change when they perceive the change is against their values or paradigms. They also resist change if it makes them or others they care about uncomfortable or emotionally upset. The change might be in conflict with the knowledge base that they’re accustomed to. Sometimes the change necessitates a shift in one or more of their well-established behavior patterns, and that also causes resistance.

Organizational resistance to change is often expressed through logistical, economic, and political roadblocks that inhibit a break from the status quo. Many times, individuals use organizational barriers to disguise their personal resistance.