Chapter 1: Historical Background of I/O Learning Objectives Explain how I/O psychology relates to the profession of psychology as a whole. Be able to identify the major fields of I/O psychology. Understand how and why psychologists are licensed. Learn the history of I/O psychology, including major people, events, and eras. Give the reasons for cross-cultural interest in I/O psychology. 1

Figure 1-1 Timeline of major I/O psychology developments and world events. 2

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Figure 1-2 Badge worn by visitors to the Hawthorne Works of the Western Electric Company 7

Chapter Summary Industrial/organizational (I/O) psychology is one area of specialization within the broad profession of psychology. I/O psychologists generally function in one of two roles: scientists or practitioners. I/O psychology is practiced and studied throughout the world. The discipline of I/O psychology comprises several subfields. The history of I/O psychology is best represented by seven eras, the most recent being the Information Age (1994–present). Business is now conducted on a global scale, which presents many professional opportunities for I/O psychologists. The mandate of I/O psychology is to increase the fit between the workforce and the workplace when the composition of both is rapidly changing. As work assumes a more central role in our lives, the need for I/O psychology to balance work and family issues continues to grow. 8