I&D: Organisational Psychology Flashcards
Idiographic vs Nomothetic
Idiographic: studying individuals, because by obtaining lots of detailed data about an individual/group, we can better understand human behaviour (case study)
Nomothetic: study of large and varied groups, with the aim of making generalisations about what is typical in different aspects of human behaviour (i.e. establish norms) (questionnaires, experiments)
Determinism vs Free Will
Determinism: our thoughts and behaviours are influenced by forces beyond our control
* if employee behaviour viewed as deterministic, interventions may target environmental factors or organisational structures that influence employee behaviour.
Free will: our thoughts and behaviours are a matter of choice, within our conscious control
* if employee behaviour viewed as having free-will, interventions may target enhancing individual autonomy and decision-making skills
Reductionism vs Holism
Reductionism: breaking behaviour down into its smallest, simplest component parts
- e.g. Reductionist approach: employee wellbeing can be broken down into distinct factors such as pay, company policy and vacation time. (MISSES BIG PICTURE)
Holism: considering the whole person as an indivisible system
- e.g. Holistic approach: employee wellbeing encompasses MANY factors other than that, such as job autonomy, work-life balance, social support and organisational climate.
Individualism vs Collectivism
(Cultural differences)
a) Individualism: emphasises autonomy, rights and freedom of individuals.
* Each person is entitled to make independent choices and pursue their goals
* Values personal responsibility and recognises the unique qualities and contributions of each individual to society
Individualist workplaces (e.g. startups, small businesses, flat structured organisations): emphasis on individual achievement, autonomy, and personal goals.
* Rewards based on individual performance.
* Communication is direct and focused on tasks, less emphasis on relationships.
* Competition among employees is encouraged to boost innovation and performance.
b) Collectivism: emphasises welfare and interests of the collective group/community over individual desires
Collectivist workplaces (e.g. family businesses, government agencies, strong hierarchy organisations): emphasis on group cohesion, cooperation and shared goals
* Focus on team achievements and collaborative efforts.
* Decisions made by considering group interests and values.
* Communication is indirect and focuses on harmony and social cohesion.
Ethnocentrism
(Cultural differences)
tendency to evaluate other cultures/groups/individuals based on standards & values of one’s cultural group, often resulting in belief that one’s own culture is superior to others
* Can lead to judgements, biases and prejudices against those who don’t share the same cultural beliefs
