This article seems to make the assumption that the dates for 'bad news' (e.g. layoffs) is set predominantly because of the best date from a PR perspective. This

This article seems to make the assumption that the dates for 'bad news' (e.g. layoffs) is set predominantly because of the best date from a PR perspective. This PR-centric view seems conveniently simple considering they appear to be a PR platform. Wouldn't an alternative explanation just be that 'bad things' are done on Thursdays, and news happens the same time the bad things happen? e.g. if I had to announce a layoff, I might pick a Thursday as it would allow me 3 days to ensure I could get all my team members in one place (e.g. you might want to do it in person if possible), and then I could potentially give affected employees the Friday off to adjust to the news. I would also still have HR in the day after it all happened to help manage any employee queries, and it probably disturbs as little of the week as possible (returning on Monday will feel 'different' but acceptance would kick in).