Organizational behavior is really the combination of four areas of study – psychology, social psychology, sociology, and anthropology. While each of these areas involves an examination of people and their interactions, the focuses are quite different:
Psychology – studies the mind and how people make decisions.
Social Psychology – examines how people work in groups.
Sociology – explores how systems work within the organization.
Anthropology – examines how culture works within the organization.
Now, assume that you are an organizational consultant and have been asked by a new CEO to evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of the organization.
- Of the four areas of study listed above, which would you focus on first?
- Make sure to explain why you chose this area, and why it would take precedence over the other areas.
PLEASE RESPOND TO CLASSMATE DISCUSSION WHETHER YOU AGREE OR NOT & A DETAILED WHY: The area I choose to look at first is going to be Social Psychology. The reason I choose this area first is because I think that is important to know how people work in groups. To help a CEO make a good decision I think that having a great team is what will lead to success. I’ve always said one bad apple can ruin it for everyone. I think once you find an individual you can then look at the other areas like decision making most times I’ve noticed most team players are fair in looking at systems and programs from a very openminded point of view so this will help when it comes to sociology later on as another factor. The same reasons for psychology team players are always for the good of the group so, if a CEO can find an individual who is a positive person in the area of social psychology and will lead to the help and building of anthropology too.