Industrial Organizational Psychology Midterm Coverage

These flashcards cover key concepts and legal issues related to employee selection in organizational psychology.

What is the first step in the legal process for employee selection?

A legislative body, such as the U.S. Congress, must pass a law.

Can states pass laws that reduce federal laws' protections?

No, states cannot pass laws that diminish rights granted by federal legislation.

What internal resolution process must an employee utilize before filing a complaint with the EEOC?

The employee must use the internal complaint resolution process available within the organization.

What are the two outcomes after an EEOC investigation if a charge does not have merit?

If accepted, the process ends; if disputed, a right to sue letter is issued.

What does the EEOC aim to achieve if a charge has merit?

It tries to work out a settlement between the claimant and the employer.

Case law establishes precedents for future cases.

What is the significance of case law in employment decisions?

What defines a 'protected class'?

A group of individuals protected by federal law from discrimination.

How does the Pregnancy Discrimination Act protect pregnant employees?

It mandates that women affected by pregnancy must be treated the same as other employees not affected by pregnancy.

What are the requirements for an employment decision to be considered a bona fide occupational qualification (BFOQ)?

The employer must demonstrate that the job can only be performed by a specific class.

What does 'adverse impact' refer to in employment practices?

It indicates that a hiring decision negatively affects members of a protected class.

What must organizations do to avoid liability in sexual harassment cases?

They must have policies in place and take prompt action upon receiving a complaint.

What is the Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA) purpose?

It entitles eligible employees to unpaid leave for family and medical reasons.

What are the four main affirmative action strategies?

Monitoring stats, intentional recruitment, removing discouraging practices, and preferential hiring.

What is needed for a test to be legally defensible in hiring?

The test must be job-related and pass legal scrutiny.

What must an employer provide if an applicant scores low on a psychological test?

The employer must offer a chance for rehabilitation or appeal.

What is a ‘right to sue’ letter?

A document allowing a complainant to pursue legal action after an EEOC investigation.

What are some limitations associated with drug testing?

Testing must be reasonable and conducted with cause.

What does the acronym ADA stand for in relation to employment laws?

Americans with Disabilities Act.

What method should organizations use for effectively measuring application responses?

Use a scoring key for standardized evaluation.

When should organizations typically check references for job applicants?

After a conditional offer of employment has been made.

How should rejection letters be structured per best practices?

They should be personalized, express appreciation, and provide a compliment.

What does the term 'construct validity' refer to in employee selection tests?

It refers to the extent to which a test measures the construct it claims to measure.