Individual Differences in the Workplace

Flashcards about individual differences in the workplace, covering origins of behavior differences, heredity vs. environment, and factors influencing work behavior.

Why is it important for an HR manager to be mindful of individual differences?

To ensure employee happiness by understanding and addressing the differences between people in the workplace.

What are some less noticeable occurrences that may influence work behaviour?

Physiological and genetic characteristics, as well as environmental influences.

What are the two main categories influencing differences in human behavior?

Hereditary and environmental factors.

What aspects of a child are determined by heredity?

Structure, complexion, structure of hair, height, and facial features.

How many chromosomes does each parent contribute to the child?

Each parent contributes 23 chromosomes.

What are genes (or zygotes)?

Small particles numbering from 40-100 within each chromosome.

What is the meaning of Genotype?

The total genetic makeup or composition of a person determined by the genetic blueprint from their parents.

What is Phenotype?

Observable characteristics of a person, determined by the interaction between genotype and environmental influences.

What does the individuality mean in the context of genetic differences?

It means that major differences between people are engineered through the random merging of germ cells during conception, making it improbable for two people (except twins) to have identical genetic compositions.

How is gender determined?

Gender is determined by whether the ovum is fertilized by a sperm with an X chromosome (female) or a Y chromosome (male).

What are prenatal environmental influences?

Factors such as radiation, rubella, and prenatal nutrition that can affect the foetus's development in the womb.

Name three research methods used to explain individual differences

Family studies, twin studies and studies on adopted children

What is the main argument of the Heredity vs. Environment debate?

Determining whether genetic makeup or environmental influences primarily shape individual development.

According to McCormick and Tiffin (1975), what aspects are greatly influenced by heredity?

Basic traits such as height, weight, and strength.

What aspects of a person are environmentally influenced?

Personality and interests.

What are qualitative dimensions of work behavior?

Evaluative aspects of work, judging behaviour according to values such as good/bad or satisfactory/unsatisfactory, using predetermined standards.

What individual variables can influence differences in work performance?

Abilities, aptitude, intelligence, personality, age, gender, physical characteristics, interest, and motivation.

What are situational variables that influence work behavior?

Working conditions (physical and psychological) and social variables (organizational culture).

What are two categories of Situational Variables or factors

Working conditions and social variables

What are the four forms of organizational culture?

Hierarchy, Market, Clan, and Adhocracy.

What does “person fit job” mean?

The degree to which the unique characteristics of an individual employee are suited for success in a particular job.

What is affected by economic considerations in the workplace?

Effective use of all factors of production, including labor force, while closely monitoring employee turnover.

What is one personal consideration when placing workers in a job?

Placing workers in jobs where their knowledge, skills, and abilities best match the job requirements.

What is an issue that legal and contractual considerations are related to?

Legal considerations are related to the stipulations of service contracts and the requirements of trade unions.