Basic Assumptions of OB

Basic Assumptions of OB

Every field of social science has a philosophical foundation of basic concepts that guide its development.

OB has also certain basic assumptions revolving around the nature of people and the nature of organization.

A. Nature of the people1. Individual differences2. A whole person3. Caused behavior4. Value of the person

B. Nature of the organization5. Social System6. Mutual interest

• 1. Individual Differences• 2. A whole person• 3. Caused Behavior• 4. Value of the person

The nature of people

• 5. Social System• 6. Mutual Interest

The nature of organization

Nature of the people

1. Individual differences

Every individual in the world is different from all others.

The idea of individual difference comes originally from psychology.

Individual may differ in physical characteristics, intelligence, aptitudes, attitudes, personality, skills and so on.

Such differences may affect on the job behaviors of employees so managers need to consider these differences.

Therefore, every person should be selected, trained and treated on the basis of what the kind of person s/he is.

2. A whole person

An employees personal life is not detached from his working life.

When an employee comes to the work station as a complete person, s/he has his/her background, sentiments, emotions, feelings etc. which can not be separated from the skills they are using in the job.

Therefore, the manager need to help an all –round development of the man rather than a particular aspects of a person.

3. Caused behaviors

According to psychologists, human behavior is caused, motivated and goal directed.

People’s behavior is caused by needs which can be directed and controlled in order to get desired results.

Therefore, managers need to motivate employees, and determine what managerial action satisfy human needs and what actions threaten their need fulfillment.

4. Value of the person

This concept tells that employees should be treated differently as compared to other resources in the organization.

People’s feelings, sentiments, aspiration skills etc. should be recognized in the organization.

People should be treated with respect, dignity and equity not should be treated like an animal or a machine.