Organizational Psychology: Historical Background

Question 1

________________________ was developed by Frederick Taylor (1911) who applied the scientific method to the study of job productivity. He is probably best known for his ____________________ studies, which he used to identify how workers could complete their tasks in less time and with greater efficiency.

Answer 1

• Scientific Management
• Time and motion

Question 2

As described by Taylor, scientific management involves:

a) Scientifically _________________ jobs into their component parts and then standardizing those parts
b) Scientifically selecting, ______________, and placing workers in jobs for which they are mentally and physicall suited
c) Fostering ________________ between supervisors and workers to minimize deviation from scientific methods of work
d) Having managers and workers assume responsibility for their own share of their work.

Answer 2

• Analyzing
• Training
• Cooperation

Question 3

Taylor believed that workers are motivated primarily by _______________, and advocated for a differential piece-rate system that _______________ to those who exceed the standard level of performance.

Answer 3

• Money
• Pay more

Question 4

An important factor leading to the development of an alternative to scientific management that placed greater emphasis on worker needs/motives/relationships was the research conducted by ______________ and colleagues at the __________________ of the Western Electric Company between 1927-1932.

Answer 4

• Elton Mayo
• Hawthorne Plant

Question 5

The improvement in job performance resulting from psychological and social factors related to participation in a research study is referred to as the _______________________.

Answer 5

Hawthorne Effect.

Question 6

Other experiments at the Hawthorne plant found that _______________________ have a significant impact on worker productivity. Mayo found that production above or below the informal norm resulted in social pressure to conform.

Answer 6

Informal Work Group Norms.

Question 7

The differences between the scientific management and human relations approches are reflected in McGregor’s (1960) distinction between ________________ and ________________ managers.

Answer 7

• Theory X
• Theory Y

Question 8

______________ managers believe that employees dislike work and avoid it whenever possible and, as a result, must be directed and controlled.

Answer 8

Theory X.

Question 9

_______________ managers view work as being “as natural as play” and assume that employees are capable of self-control and self-direction.

Answer 9

Theory Y.