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1. Define what is OB
Organizational Behavior (OB) is a field of study that investigates how individuals, groups, and organizational structures interact and influence one another within the workplace. It draws on concepts from psychology, sociology, anthropology, and other social sciences to explain human behavior in organizations. The purpose of OB is not only to describe behavior but also to understand, predict, and manage it effectively so that both employees and organizations can perform optimally.
In simpler terms, OB focuses on what people do in an organization, why they do it, and how their behavior impacts organizational performance. By examining motivation,
leadership, communication, decision-making, and organizational culture, OB provides managers with the tools to create healthier and more productive workplaces.
2. Show the value of systematic study of OB
The systematic study of OB means relying on scientific evidence, data, and proven theories to explain and manage behavior, rather than just intuition or personal experience. This approach adds value in many ways:
Improved prediction – Managers can predict employee responses to policies, changes, or incentives, which helps in planning strategies effectively.
Better decision-making – Decisions are based on data, research, and trends instead of guesswork, leading to more accurate solutions to workplace challenges.
Understanding diversity – A systematic approach helps in dealing with differences in culture, gender, age, and background, which is crucial in globalized organizations.
Employee performance and satisfaction – By applying OB knowledge, organizations can design jobs, rewards, and
leadership approaches that increase motivation and reduce turnover.
Evidence-based management – Just like doctors rely on research for treatments, managers can rely on OB findings to make informed organizational choices.
In short, systematic study makes OB a science-based discipline that helps managers move from “what I think will work” to “what we know works.”
3. Identify the behavioral sciences that contribute to OB
OB is interdisciplinary, meaning it borrows knowledge from multiple behavioral sciences:
Psychology → Focuses on the individual level. It explains learning, motivation, personality, emotions, perception, and individual differences. For example, why some employees are highly motivated while others are disengaged.
Sociology → Looks at the
group and organizational level. It studies social systems, culture, teamwork, organizational structure, and
group dynamics. For example, how
group norms influence productivity.
Social Psychology → Blends psychology and sociology. It studies how people influence each other,
leadership effectiveness, communication patterns, and attitudes. For example, why people conform to peer pressure at work.
Anthropology → Examines cultural values and practices, especially in cross-cultural or multinational organizations. It helps managers understand cultural diversity and organizational rituals.
Political Science → Studies power, authority, and conflict within organizations, which helps leaders manage politics and negotiations.
Together, these disciplines provide a complete picture of human behavior in organizations, from the individual level to the global cultural context.
4. Compare the 3 levels of analysis in this text’s OB model
OB can be studied at three main levels of analysis, which are interconnected:
Individual Level
Focus: Personality, motivation, perception, attitudes, and decision-making.
Example: Why one employee is more motivated than another, or how stress affects performance.
Goal: Understand and predict individual behavior to improve productivity and satisfaction.
Focus: Communication,
leadership, power, conflict, team dynamics, and decision-making.
Example: Why some teams collaborate effectively while others fail, or how
leadership style impacts
group morale.
Goal: Improve teamwork,
leadership effectiveness, and collaboration.
Organizational System Level
Focus: Organizational culture, structure, change, and overall effectiveness.
Example: Why one organization adapts successfully to change while another resists and fails.
Goal: Optimize organizational design, strategy, and long-term sustainability.
Comparison:
The individual level looks inward at personal traits and behaviors.
The
group level examines how individuals interact and work together.
The organizational level considers the big picture—how structure, culture, and strategy affect everyone.
All three levels are interconnected: individual behavior influences
group performance, and both contribute to overall organizational outcomes.
5. Describe the skills employability gained studying OB
Studying Organizational Behavior equips students and professionals with valuable employability skills that are highly sought after in today’s workplace:
Communication Skills – Ability to express ideas clearly, actively listen, and adapt messages for different audiences.
Interpersonal Skills – Understanding human behavior makes it easier to build relationships, resolve conflicts, and collaborate effectively.
Leadership Skills – Knowledge of motivation and influence helps in guiding teams and inspiring others.
Analytical & Problem-Solving Skills – Using data and OB theories, individuals can analyze workplace problems and find effective solutions.
Adaptability & Cultural Awareness – Understanding diversity and organizational culture prepares individuals to work in global, multicultural environments.
Teamwork & Collaboration – Skills in
group dynamics improve the ability to work in and manage teams.
Ethical Decision-Making – OB emphasizes responsibility and ethics in
leadership and organizational choices.