ORGANIZATIONAL BEHAVIOUR, MANAGEMENT THEORY AND ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE: AN OVERVIEW OF THE INTER-RELATIONSHIP

Oginni Babalola Oluwayemi

doi:10.14738/abr.66.4643

Abstract

The paper presents an overview of the organizational behaviour (OB) and its relationship with management theory and organizational structure. It examined the concept of organizational behaviour from a number of perspectives exploring the prevailing definitions and the scope of the discipline. The relationship between OB and management theory was examined and it was noted that OB is an offshoot of management theory, and a macrocosm of the component theories in management theory, where the mainstream management theories have contributions towards the development of OB as a field of study. The exploration of the link between OB and organizational structure revealed that both are interactive. Structure affects OB at all levels and OB determines the choice of structural design. The promotion of work behaviour that enhances productivity and organizational performance constitutes the nexus between organizational behaviour, management theory and organizational structure. The specific areas of management which constitute the subject areas for OB analysis include leadership, power and authority relations, interpersonal communication, conflict and attitude development & perception among others. The paper presented the major contemporary challenges in management theorization which are amenable to OB analysis to include internationalization, workforce diversity, production quality and productivity, employee empowerment, change management and ethical behaviour.

Highlights

The construct “Organizational Behaviour” commonly abbreviated as “organizational behaviour (OB)” is a combination of two separate constructs, “organization” and “behaviour” both of which are features of human character, relationship and existence
This paper explores and examines the scope of organizational behaviour (OB) and the interface between OB and organizational structure; and the relationship between organizational behaviour and management theory
The paper is a theoretical discourse. It draws from contemporary issues in the literature on OB, organizational structure and management theory to explain the tripartite connection between the three concepts; and using the current realities in work settings as a reflection of the nexus

Summary

INTRODUCTION

The construct “Organizational Behaviour” commonly abbreviated as “OB” is a combination of two separate constructs, “organization” and “behaviour” both of which are features of human character, relationship and existence. The pattern of interactional relationship aimed at achieving the set group goal is defined and bounded by certain parameters. These parameters determine, guide and shape the behaviour and actions of the group both as separate members and as one entity (jointly). Organizational behaviour theory explains behaviour in the context of organization (group relationship and interaction) within certain structure. METHODOLOGY The paper is a theoretical discourse It draws from contemporary issues in the literature on OB, organizational structure and management theory to explain the tripartite connection between the three concepts; and using the current realities in work settings as a reflection of the nexus. The discussion was based on the information generated from the review of the relevant literature and observed workers’ current behavioural patterns and attitudes as well as management decision processes in organizations

LITERATURE REVIEW AND CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK

CONCLUSION