OB 520 Discussion 1

Organizational behavior is really the combination of four areas of study – psychology, social psychology, sociology, and anthropology. While each of these areas involves an examination of people and their interactions, the focuses are quite different:

Psychology - studies the mind and how people make decisions.
Social Psychology - examines how people work in groups.
Sociology - explores how systems work within the organization.
Anthropology - examines how culture works within the organization.

Now, assume that you are an organizational consultant and have been asked by a new CEO to evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of the organization.

• · Of the four areas of study listed above, which would you focus on first?
• · Make sure to explain why you chose this area, and why it would take precedence over the other areas.
• · View this short video for guidance.