Framework for Studying WOP-P Role of theory in applied setting Lewin’s formula B = f (p*e) Organizational Diagnosis and Assessment Consulting as a Practitioner Motivation / Satisfaction / Leadership
Psychological Theory Theory: a set of interrelated constructs that predict and explain behavior Guides research Can be generalized to other times/ settings / populations Concept: Expresses an abstraction, e.g., "achievement." Construct: a concept invented for scientific research, e.g., "intelligence."
K. Lewin’s Formula Kurt Lewin B = f (p*e) Behavior Directly observable overt or covert action (thinking is included! You just have to ask) Indirectly observable results or self-report p - Person unit of observation – (usually) e – Environment Anything in the person’s field that can influence behavior * - person and environment interaction
Organizational Diagnosis & Assessment IOP Consultant’s Role To solve a problem (presented by management) Usually how it begins Or Discover an opportunity for improvement Look for opportunities (while you are solving the problem)
Organizational Diagnosis and Assessment Medical Model (physician’s approach) Observe symptoms Conduct assessments Clinical observation and tests (temperature, BP, blood work Diagnosis cause of symptoms Consider remedies Treat the patient Follow up Revise if needed
Consulting as an IOP practitioner – using the medical model metaphor Observe symptoms presented by client Listen carefully and summarize Do not take their diagnosis for granted Identify the problem - “pain point” or what hurting Conduct assessments (your own) using Archival information, interviews, focus groups, surveys, inventories Diagnose cause of problem Consider solutions (possible interventions) Implement solution Follow up
Consulting as a Practitioner Building Client Relations Use business lingo Never use the term “theory” Get buy-in at all levels Top to bottom, union, management Invite input (but only if you think it may help) If you ask be prepared to use some of it Don’t pretend to know more than you do
Motivation / Satisfaction / Leadership Three perspectives for case study Drivers of behavior (from amotivation to high engagement) Satisfaction Attitudes that influence behavior Leadership An important driver of behavior