Control Theory in Organizational Behavior: Review, Critique, and Prospects

Abstract

This paper reviews the control theory debate in organizational behavior and argues that published criticism is valid for mechanical, rather than human, control theory conceptions. It advances further criticisms that distinguish additional limitations of current control theory models, and identifies avenues for theory development and empirical research. The article then examines the ramifications for control theory of Weick's(1979) argument that goal-setting follows action, and discusses the need for the integration of retrospective sensemaking and goal inferences into control theory.