Organizational Behaviour and Work

Fiona Wilson provides an accessible, critical introduction to organizational behaviour. This engagingly written textbook introduces students to key topics, ideas, and research in OB. Without assuming prior knowledge of the subject, the student is nevertheless encouraged to critically assess and question the traditional approach to the study of organizational life. The text introduces students to both traditional and non-traditional areas of research, acting as a springboard for further research and critical thinking. The range of themes and topics explored provides a rich picture of the realities of organizational life, and of the varied contributions that make up the study of OB. For example, the concept of alienation is discussed in relation to both assembly lines and to call centres, leading into a discussion about the meaning of work. The new edition guides the reader through critical perspectives on classic organizational topics, including new chapters on Personality and Perception. The text also focuses attention on core critical approaches, including power, resistance, and alternative forms of organization. In the Introduction, the reader is also provided with more detail on the different implications of taking a functionalist or critical approach to the study of OB - a theme which also runs throughought the book.
The third edition also includes enhanced pedagogy, ensuring that the book is highly accessible. Questions, further reading suggestions and annotated examples of films and novels that illustrate themes and topics from each chapter, help students to interact with the text, and support lecturers in seminar preparation. Stop and Think boxes encourage the reader to engage with and reflect on the text by drawing on their own experiences and perspectives, and numerous and varied examples and cases, drawn from both research and organizational life, bring the text to life and add depth.

* A highly accessible introduction which assumes no prior knowledge on the part of the reader.
* An engaging, fresh writing style and approach, rather than a dry and sanitised account of working life.
* A critical perspective to the subject of OB: throughout, the book takes account of issues of power, control, resistance, gender, and race, encouraging the reader to reflect upon the complex realities of working life.
* Calls on a wide range of research, thereby introducing students to the rich and varied contributions that make up the study of OB, and acting as a springboard for further reading and research.
* Includes both classic OB topics as well as more unusual and interesting topics which are often omitted from OB textbooks, creating an engaging, thought-provoking text.

New to this edition

* A new structure which moves from classic organizational behaviour topics to critical approaches, providing a close match to module structures.
* Includes new chapters on Personality and Perception.
* Each chapter now includes an expanded introduction, conclusion, and key points, ensuring a high level of clarity and accessibility.
* Each chapter now includes end-of-chapter case studies with questions, which allow the reader to explore further the themes from the chapter.
* New annotated suggestions of films and literature which explore the themes and topics in each chapter, encouraging the reader to take their learning further.
* A consideration of gender in OB is balanced with an increased focus on other areas of potential discrimination, including issues around race and age.