1.6. Chapter 1 study guide: Summary Questions and Answers

What is organizational behavior and why is it important?

• Organizational behavior is the study of individuals and groups in organizations.

• OB is an applied discipline based on scientific methods.

• OB uses a contingency approach, recognizing that management practices must fit the situation.

• Shifting paradigms of OB reflect a commitment to ethical behavior, the importance of human capital, an emphasis on teams, the growing influence of information technology, new workforce expectations, changing notions of careers, and concern for sustainability.