1. UNIT- 1
BLOCK-I INTRODUCTION TO HUMAN BEHAVIOR AND ORGANIZATION
UNIT 1 FUNDAMENTALS OF ORGANIZATIONAL BEHAVIOR
Overview
Objectives
1.1 Introduction
1.2 Historical Development of Organizational Behavior
1.3 Factors Influencing Organizational Behavior
1.4 Contributing Disciplines to OB
1.5 Organizational Behavior Models
1.6 Importance of Organizational Behavior in the Workplace
1.7 Future Trends in Organizational Behavior
Let Us Sum Up
Check Your Progress
Glossary
Answer to Check Your Progress
Suggested Reading
Objectives
1. Understanding Human Behavior in Organizations
2. 2. Enhancing Organizational Efficiency and Performance
3. Improving Leadership and Management Skills
4. Strengthening Teamwork and Communication
5. Creating a Positive Organizational Culture
6. Adapting to Change and Innovation
1.1 Introduction
Organizational Behavior (OB) is the study of human behavior in organizational settings. It
explores how individuals, groups, and structures influence behavior within organizations. The
goal is to improve organizational efficiency and employee well-being. OB integrates psychology,
sociology, anthropology, and management theories to understand workplace dynamics.
Key Aspects:
● Definition and scope of OB
● Importance in modern workplaces
● Application in different organizational settings
1.2 Historical Development of Organizational Behavior
OB has evolved over time, influenced by various management theories. The major developments
include:
3. 1. Scientific Management (Late 1800s – Early 1900s)
● Frederick Taylor introduced time-and-motion studies to enhance efficiency.
● Focused on optimizing tasks and worker productivity.
2. Human Relations Movement (1930s – 1950s)
● Elton Mayo's Hawthorne Studies showed that social factors affect productivity.
● Emphasized motivation, leadership, and group dynamics.
3. Behavioral Science Approach (1950s – 1970s)
● Integrated psychology and sociology into management.
● Abraham Maslow introduced the Hierarchy of Needs theory.
● Douglas McGregor proposed Theory X and Theory Y leadership styles.
4. Modern OB Theories (1980s – Present)
● Systems approach, contingency theory, and organizational culture studies.
● Emphasis on diversity, technology, and ethical leadership.
1.3 Factors Influencing Organizational Behavior
4. OB is shaped by internal and external factors, including:
1. Individual Factors
● Personality, attitudes, perception, and motivation.
● Emotional intelligence and cognitive abilities.
2. Group Factors
● Teamwork, communication, leadership, and power dynamics.
● Organizational culture and interpersonal relationships.
3. Organizational Factors
● Structure, policies, and management style.
● Work environment, rewards system, and organizational culture.
4. Environmental Factors
● Economic conditions, technological advancements, and globalization.
● Legal and ethical considerations in the workplace.
1.4 Contributing Disciplines to OB
5. OB draws knowledge from various disciplines, including:
1. Psychology
● Studies individual behavior, personality, motivation, and perception.
● Key theories: Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs, Herzberg’s Two-Factor Theory.
2. Sociology
● Examines group behavior, organizational structure, and communication.
● Focus on leadership, teamwork, and corporate culture.
3. Anthropology
● Explores organizational culture and cross-cultural management.
● Helps in understanding diverse workforce dynamics.
4. Political Science
● Analyzes power, authority, and conflict resolution in organizations.
5. Economics
● Examines decision-making, resource allocation, and incentives.
1.5 Organizational Behavior Models
6. Several models help explain and predict behavior in organizations:
1. Autocratic Model
● Focus on authority and control.
● Employees are dependent on management decisions.
2. Custodial Model
● Emphasizes security, benefits, and financial incentives.
● Employees feel loyal but not necessarily motivated.
3. Supportive Model
● Encourages leadership, motivation, and engagement.
● Employees feel valued and contribute actively.
4. Collegial Model
● Promotes teamwork and shared responsibility.
● Employees feel a sense of partnership.
5. System Model
● Focus on continuous improvement, trust, and empowerment.
● Employees are committed to long-term organizational success.
7. 1.6 Importance of Organizational Behavior in the Workplace
OB is critical for enhancing workplace effectiveness and employee satisfaction.
1. Improves Productivity
● Enhances employee motivation and efficiency.
● Reduces absenteeism and turnover.
2. Enhances Communication and Leadership
● Fosters teamwork and reduces conflicts.
● Develops effective leadership strategies.
3. Encourages Innovation and Adaptability
● Helps organizations navigate change.
● Encourages creative problem-solving.
4. Strengthens Organizational Culture
● Develops a positive work environment.
● Aligns employee values with organizational goals.
5. Boosts Employee Satisfaction
8. ● Creates a supportive and inclusive workplace.
● Enhances work-life balance and job engagement.
1.7 Future Trends in Organizational Behavior
Organizational behavior (OB) continues to evolve as workplaces adapt to new challenges,
technologies, and societal shifts. Here are some key future trends shaping OB:
1. Remote & Hybrid Work Models
● The shift towards remote and hybrid work is expected to continue.
● Companies are investing in digital collaboration tools and redefining performance
metrics.
● Flexible work arrangements will become standard, influencing employee engagement
and work-life balance.
2. AI & Automation in the Workplace
● Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming decision-making, recruitment, and task
automation.
● AI-driven people analytics help in predicting employee behavior and improving
engagement.
9. ● Ethical concerns around AI bias and job displacement will need attention.
3. Employee Well-being & Mental Health
● Organizations are prioritizing mental health programs, wellness initiatives, and work-
life integration.
● A focus on psychological safety ensures employees feel comfortable expressing ideas
and concerns.
● Burnout prevention strategies are becoming essential.
4. Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging (DEIB)
● Companies are making diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB) a core part
of their culture.
● There is a push for inclusive leadership and policies to eliminate workplace bias.
● Generational diversity (Gen Z, Millennials, Gen X, Boomers) is reshaping workplace
expectations.
5. Data-Driven Decision Making
● Companies use big data and analytics to assess employee performance, engagement,
and productivity.
● Real-time feedback tools and predictive analytics improve HR decision-making.
● Ethical use of employee data will be a growing concern.
10. 6. Agile & Adaptive Leadership
● Leadership is becoming more flexible and people-centric to adapt to fast-changing
environments.
● Emphasis on emotional intelligence (EQ), resilience, and adaptability in leaders.
● Decentralized decision-making models are gaining popularity.
7. Sustainability & Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)
● Organizations are focusing on sustainability initiatives and ethical business practices.
● Employees expect companies to take a stance on social and environmental issues.
● Sustainable workplace practices (e.g., remote work, green offices) are rising.
8. Skills Development & Lifelong Learning
● Continuous learning and upskilling are crucial as jobs evolve with technology.
● Companies invest in personalized learning platforms using AI.
● Soft skills like creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking are in high demand.
9. Employee Experience & Personalization
● A shift towards customized employee experiences (e.g., flexible benefits, career paths).
● AI-driven HR tools will offer personalized career development plans.
11. ● Employee voice and feedback mechanisms are becoming more important.
10. Ethical & Transparent Work Culture
● Employees demand ethical leadership, transparency, and accountability.
● Focus on corporate governance, ethical AI use, and fair labor practices.
● A rise in whistleblower protection and anti-corruption measures.
Let Us Sum Up
Introduction
Organizational Behavior (OB) studies how individuals, groups, and structures influence
workplace behavior. It integrates psychology, sociology, and management theories to enhance
efficiency and employee well-being. OB applies to various organizational settings.
Historical Development of OB
● Scientific Management (Late 1800s–Early 1900s): Focused on efficiency and task
optimization (Frederick Taylor).
● Human Relations Movement (1930s–1950s): Highlighted motivation and group
dynamics (Elton Mayo).
● Behavioral Science Approach (1950s–1970s): Integrated psychology; introduced
motivation theories (Maslow’s Hierarchy, McGregor’s Theory X & Y).
12. ● Modern OB Theories (1980s–Present): Emphasized systems approach, contingency
theory, diversity, and ethical leadership.
Factors Influencing OB
● Individual Factors: Personality, attitudes, motivation, emotional intelligence.
● Group Factors: Teamwork, communication, leadership, power dynamics.
● Organizational Factors: Structure, policies, work environment, rewards.
● Environmental Factors: Economy, technology, globalization, ethics.
Contributing Disciplines to OB
● Psychology: Studies individual behavior, motivation (Maslow, Herzberg).
● Sociology: Examines group behavior, teamwork, leadership.
● Anthropology: Explores culture and diversity.
● Political Science: Analyzes power, authority, conflict.
● Economics: Focuses on decision-making, incentives.
OB Models
● Autocratic Model: Authority-based, limited employee participation.
● Custodial Model: Focuses on job security and benefits.
13. ● Supportive Model: Encourages leadership and motivation.
● Collegial Model: Promotes teamwork and shared responsibility.
● System Model: Emphasizes continuous improvement, trust, and empowerment.
Importance of OB in the Workplace
● Boosts Productivity: Enhances motivation and reduces turnover.
● Improves Communication & Leadership: Fosters teamwork, reduces conflicts.
● Encourages Innovation & Adaptability: Helps organizations navigate change.
● Strengthens Organizational Culture: Aligns values with goals.
● Enhances Employee Satisfaction: Supports well-being and work-life balance.
Future Trends in OB
● Remote & Hybrid Work: Digital collaboration tools, flexible work models.
● AI & Automation: Data-driven HR decisions, AI ethics concerns.
● Employee Well-being & Mental Health: Focus on psychological safety, burnout
prevention.
● Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging (DEIB): Inclusive leadership, generational
diversity.
● Data-Driven Decision Making: Big data in HR, ethical data use.
14. ● Agile & Adaptive Leadership: Emphasizing EQ, resilience, decentralized decision-
making.
● Sustainability & CSR: Ethical business practices, environmental responsibility.
● Skills Development & Lifelong Learning: AI-driven upskilling, soft skills demand.
● Employee Experience & Personalization: Customized career paths, AI-driven HR
tools.
● Ethical & Transparent Work Culture: Focus on corporate governance, whistleblower
protection.
Check Your Progress
1. 1. Organizational Behavior (OB) primarily focuses on:
A) Studying human behavior in organizational settings
B) Marketing strategies for businesses
C) Financial management techniques
D) Manufacturing processes
2. 2. Who is known as the father of Scientific Management?
A) Elton Mayo
B) Douglas McGregor
C) Frederick Taylor
D) Abraham Maslow
3. 3. The Hawthorne Studies highlighted the importance of:
A) Financial incentives in increasing productivity
B) Social factors and employee relationships
C) Strict supervision in the workplace
D) Eliminating workplace diversity
15. 4. 4. Which of the following is an individual factor influencing OB?
A) Organizational structure
B) Personality and motivation
C) Economic conditions
D) Teamwork and leadership
5. 5. Which OB model emphasizes employee security and financial benefits?
A) Autocratic Model
B) Custodial Model
C) Supportive Model
D) Collegial Model
6. 6. Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs includes which of the following needs at the highest
level?
A) Physiological needs
B) Safety needs
C) Esteem needs
D) Self-actualization
7. 7. A workplace culture that values teamwork and shared responsibility follows
which OB model?
A) System Model
B) Autocratic Model
C) Collegial Model
D) Custodial Model
8. 8. The increasing use of AI and automation in organizations primarily affects:
A) Employee well-being
B) Decision-making and task automation
C) Organizational culture
D) Physical work environment
9. 9. What does DEIB stand for in modern workplace trends?
A) Digital Engagement in Business
B) Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging
16. C) Decision-making, Ethics, Innovation & Balance
D) Data Evaluation & Intelligent Behavior
10. 10. A key benefit of Organizational Behavior in the workplace is:
A) Decreasing employee motivation
B) Increasing absenteeism
C) Enhancing communication and leadership
D) Reducing teamwork and collaboration
Glossary
1. Autocratic Model – A management style where decision-making is centralized, and
employees follow strict authority.
2. Behavioral Science Approach – A perspective in OB that integrates psychology and
sociology to understand human behavior in organizations.
3. Collegial Model – An OB model that promotes teamwork, shared responsibility, and
mutual respect among employees.
4. Contingency Theory – The idea that organizational strategies and leadership styles
should adapt to specific situations.
5. Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) – A business approach that considers ethical,
social, and environmental impacts in decision-making.
6. Custodial Model – A management approach that emphasizes job security, financial
benefits, and employee well-being to ensure loyalty.
17. 7. Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging (DEIB) – Workplace initiatives aimed at
creating fair, inclusive, and diverse environments.
8. Emotional Intelligence (EQ) – The ability to understand and manage one’s emotions
while effectively interacting with others.
9. Hawthorne Effect – The phenomenon where employees improve their performance
when they feel observed and valued.
10. Hierarchy of Needs – Maslow’s theory that human motivation progresses through five
levels: physiological, safety, love/belonging, esteem, and self-actualization.
11. Human Relations Movement – A management approach emphasizing employee well-
being, motivation, and social interactions.
12. Leadership Styles – Various approaches to leadership, including autocratic, democratic,
transformational, and servant leadership.
13. Motivation Theories – Theories explaining what drives human behavior at work, such as
Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs and Herzberg’s Two-Factor Theory.
14. Organizational Culture – The shared values, beliefs, and behaviors that define an
organization's work environment.
15. Organizational Structure – The framework that defines job roles, communication flow,
and hierarchy within an organization.
16. Psychological Safety – A work environment where employees feel safe expressing ideas
and taking risks without fear of negative consequences.
18. 17. Scientific Management – A management approach by Frederick Taylor that focuses on
efficiency, task optimization, and performance measurement.
18. Supportive Model – An OB model that emphasizes leadership, motivation, and
employee engagement.
19. System Model – An advanced OB model that focuses on continuous improvement, trust,
and empowerment.
20. Workplace Ethics – Moral principles that guide professional behavior and decision-
making in an organization
Answer to Check Your Progress
1. A) Studying human behavior in organizational settings
2. C) Frederick Taylor
3. B) Social factors and employee relationships
4. B) Personality and motivation
5. B) Custodial Model
6. D) Self-actualization
7. C) Collegial Model
8. B) Decision-making and task automation
19. 9. B) Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging
10. C) Enhancing communication and leadership
Suggested Reading
1. Robbins, S. P., & Judge, T. A. (2022). Organizational behavior (19th ed.). Pearson.
2. Luthans, F. (2021). Organizational behavior: An evidence-based approach (14th ed.).
McGraw-Hill.
3. Newstrom, J. W., & Davis, K. (2002). Organizational behavior: Human behavior at
work (12th ed.). McGraw-Hill.
4. Nelson, D. L., & Quick, J. C. (2019). Organizational behavior: Science, the real world,
and you (9th ed.). Cengage Learning.
5. Griffin, R. W., & Phillips, J. M. (2020). Organizational behavior: Managing people and
organizations (13th ed.). Cengage Learning.
6. Schein, E. H. (2017). Organizational culture and leadership (5th ed.). Wiley.
7. Goleman, D. (2005). Emotional intelligence: Why it can matter more than IQ. Bantam.