Organizational Behavior

Organizational Behavior (OB) is a multidisciplinary field dedicated to understanding, analyzing, and improving human behavior within organizations. It encompasses a wide range of topics, including individual behavior, group dynamics, organizational structures, and processes, with the aim of enhancing organizational effectiveness and employee well-being.

Historical Context

The study of organizational behavior can trace its roots back to the late 1920s with the Hawthorne Studies conducted at the Western Electric Company's Hawthorne Works plant in Cicero, Illinois. These studies highlighted the impact of social and psychological factors on employee productivity, marking a pivotal shift from the previously dominant mechanistic views of organizational management.

Key Concepts

Individual Behavior

Individual behavior within organizations is influenced by a variety of factors, including perception, motivation, and learning. Understanding these aspects is crucial for enhancing employee performance and satisfaction. Notable theories in this area include Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs and Herzberg's Two-Factor Theory.

Group Dynamics

Groups and teams are fundamental components of organizations. The study of group dynamics examines how individuals interact within teams, addressing issues such as communication, leadership, and conflict resolution. Effective group dynamics can lead to improved decision-making and innovation.

Organizational Culture

Organizational culture reflects the shared values, beliefs, and norms that influence how employees behave within an organization. A strong, positive culture can enhance organizational effectiveness, while a negative culture can lead to dysfunction and low morale.

Organizational Citizenship Behavior

A key area of study within OB is Organizational Citizenship Behavior (OCB), which refers to voluntary actions that are not part of formal job requirements but contribute to the organization's overall functioning.

Positive Organizational Behavior

Positive Organizational Behavior (POB) focuses on the strengths and psychological capacities of individuals that can be measured, developed, and effectively managed for performance improvement in the workplace.

Related Fields

Organizational Behavior Management (OBM) is a subdiscipline of Applied Behavior Analysis, applying behavior analytic principles to improve organizational efficiency.

Industrial and Organizational Psychology examines broader topics such as workplace behavior, employee selection, and performance assessment, complementing the study of organizational behavior.

Journals and Publications

The Annual Review of Organizational Psychology and Organizational Behavior and the Journal of Organizational Behavior are prominent academic journals that publish research and reviews in this field.

Related Topics

• Organization Development
• Human Resource Management
• Leadership Styles
• Change Management
• Employee Engagement

Organizational behavior is an ever-evolving field, with ongoing research contributing to new insights and practices that aim to optimize both organizational performance and employee welfare.