Chapter Introduction
Industrial/Organizational
Psychology
Claudia Cochran-Miller El Paso Community College
Marie Waung University of Michigan, Dearborn1
Appendix B
IN THIS APPENDIX:
What Is Industrial/
Organizational Psychology? History of I/
O Psychology Industrial (Personnel) Psychology
Organizational Behavior
Workplace Trends and Issues
Employment Settings, Type of Training, Earnings, and Employment Outlook
IN THE POPULAR TELEVISION SITCOM The Office, Steve Carrell played Michael Scott, branch office manager of a fictitious paper company. Claiming to be “friend first, boss second,” Michael taught viewers exactly what a manager should not say or do. In an episode about sexual harassment, for example, Michael reluctantly announced that he was giving up all non-work-related conversations and jokes, only to immediately lapse into coarse sexual innuendo. As a manager, Michael was incompetent, narcissistic, inconsiderate, and blatantly oblivious to any of his deficiencies.
Many of us recognize parts of this character at our own workplaces. And this is probably why the show has been so successful. Today’s workplace is governed by standards, policies, rules, and laws—all of which Michael flouted on a daily basis. Leading others takes insight, passion, and know-how, none of which Michael possessed. Unfortunately, many managers receive little or no training about assessment, leadership, human relations, human motivation, and the like. Consequently they are often ill-equipped to be effective managers, just like our beloved Michael.
Leadership development has been one of the greatest challenges in the world of industrial and organizational psychology (I/O). This field of psychology also helps build teams, streamline processes, increase job satisfaction, and transform workplace culture, among other objectives. This appendix will introduce you to the many benefits of bringing psychology to the workplace. So, Michael, listen up.