Nature and Importance of
Organizational Behavior
Definitions
• “OB is the study of human behavior in organizational setting, of the
interface between human behavior and organization and of the
organization itself.”- K. Aswathappa
• “OB is a field of study that investigates the impact that individuals,
groups and structures have on behavior within organizations for the
purpose of applying such knowledge towards improving an
organization's effectiveness.”- Stephen P. Robbins
• “Organisational behavior can be defined as the study and application
of knowledge about human behavior related to other elements of an
organisation such as structure, technology and social systems.”- L.M.
Prasad
Nature
A Separate field of study and not a discipline only
By definition, a discipline is an accepted science that is based on a
theoretical foundation
But, O.B. has a multi- interdisciplinary orientation and is, thus, not
based on a specific theoretical background
Therefore, it is better reasonable to call O.B. a separate field of study
rather than a discipline only.
Nature
An interdisciplinary approach
Organizational behavior is essentially an interdisciplinary approach to
study human behavior at work
It tries to integrate the relevant knowledge drawn from related
disciplines like psychology, sociology and anthropology to make them
applicable for studying and analyzing organizational behavior
Nature
An applied science
The very nature of O.B. is applied. What O.B. basically does is the
application of various researches to solve the organizational problems
related to human behavior
The basic line of difference between pure science and O.B. is that while
the former concentrates of fundamental researches, the latter
concentrates on applied researches
O.B. involves both applied research and its application in organizational
analysis. Hence, O.B. can be called both science as well as art
Nature
Normative science
Organizational Behavior is a normative science also. While the positive
science discusses only cause effect relationship
O.B. prescribes how the findings of applied researches can be applied
to socially accepted organizational goals. Thus, O.B. deals with what is
accepted by individuals and society engaged in an organization
Nature
A humanistic and optimistic approach
Organizational Behavior applies humanistic approach towards people
working in the organization. It, deals with the thinking and feeling of human
beings
O.B. is based on the belief that people have an innate desire to be
independent, creative and productive. It also realizes that people working in
the organization can and will actualize these potentials if they are given
proper conditions and environment
Environment affects performance or workers working in an organization
Nature
Total System Approach
The system approach is one that integrates all the variables, affecting
organizational functioning
The systems approach has been developed by the behavioral scientists
to analyze human behavior in view of his/her socio-psychological
framework
Man’s socio- psychological framework makes man a complex one and
the systems approach tries to study his/her complexity and find
solution to it
Levels
• 1. Individual Level – Deals with the concepts at the individual level. Examples of
individual-level concepts are perception, personality, learning, motivation, and
attitude.
• 2. Group Level – Deals with the concepts at the group level. Examples of group-
level concepts are team, conflict, leadership, power, and politics. Group-level
concepts may include how groups are formed, how to make effective teams, how
individually and collectively the group activities can be improved, how to
motivate employees, and which type of group would be suitable for a particular
assignment.
• 3. Organizational Level – Deals with the concepts at the organizational level.
Examples of organizational-level concepts are change management and
organizational culture. Other topics discussed at organizational level include the
concept of organization, different organizational models, and organizational
change along with its impact and implementation. The working conditions and
stress management are also discussed at the organizational level.
Models
• Autocratic
• Custodial
• Supportive
• Collegial
1. Autocratic
• The basis of this model is power with a managerial orientation of
authority. The employees in turn are oriented towards obedience and
dependence on the boss. The employee need that is met is
subsistence. The performance result is minimal.
2. Custodial
• The basis of this model is economic resources with a managerial
orientation of money. The employees in turn are oriented towards
security and benefits and dependence on the organization. The
employee need that is met is security. The performance result is
passive cooperation.
3. Supportive
• The basis of this model is leadership with a managerial orientation of
support. The employees in turn are oriented towards job
performance and participation. The employee need that is met is
status and recognition. The performance result is awakened drives.
4. Collegial
• The basis of this model is partnership with a managerial orientation of
teamwork. The employees in turn are oriented towards responsible
behavior and self-discipline. The employee need that is met is self-
actualization. The performance result is moderate enthusiasm.
Source
• Organisational Behaviour: Meaning, Scope, Nature, Models &
Importance (economicsdiscussion.net)
Thank You
