Organizational behavior is the field of study that examines how groups and organizations work together to achieve a common goal or objective. It combines research in psychology, sociology, and anthropology to develop new theories about group structure and decision-making.
The field of organizational behavior began as a way to study how people behave in different situations and to make better decisions about the workplace. However, it has evolved into a full-fledged field of academic study with a variety of methods for testing and refining its theories.
Many business schools offer programs focusing on organizational behavior, as do a few colleges of social work and psychology. These programs use a range of methods to understand human interaction and group dynamics, including qualitative and quantitative analysis.
Some of the key concepts in organizational behavior include:
People and Resources – An organization is made up of individuals who collaborate to accomplish a shared purpose or objective. They may also have resources, such as capital or equipment, that help them meet their objectives.
Deliberate Structure – An organization has a set of rules or policies that guide how it functions and how its members interact with each other. These can be written in a formal document or negotiated between managers.
Communication – A central element of organizational behavior, communication is how the organization transmits information and ideas to its members. It involves the exchange of information that promotes or inhibits an individual’s ability to perform their job, maintains relationships within the organization, and acclimates individuals to changes in the work environment.
The primary function of organizational communication is to inform and communicate the values, goals, and objectives of an organization to its members. It also helps people accomplish their tasks and maintain positive relationships with each other (Goldhaber 20).
Culture – An organization’s culture is the attitudes, values, beliefs, and behaviors that characterize an organization’s members and its members’ interactions with each other. It is influenced by such factors as:
What Are Some of the Most Common Problems in Organizational Behavior?
Some of the most common problems in organizational behavior include:
Change Resistance and Fatigue – People often become resistant to change because it involves loss of comfort, resources, and control. This can lead to a number of negative consequences, including:
Conflicting Personalities and Traits – Some people have conflicting personality traits that affect their ability to perform at a high level. They might be overly competitive and aggressive, or they might be more lenient toward others.
Accountability – This is an important aspect of organizational behavior because it helps to ensure that the work being done meets the goals and objectives of the organization. It also helps to keep track of how well the organization is doing and how it can improve its performance in the future.
As a result of these challenges, it’s important to address them as quickly as possible before they have a chance to impact the entire operation. By addressing these issues early on, you can help your organization get back on its feet and continue to grow and thrive in the future.