Direction Of Behavior

Description

Throughout the semester, we have referred to strong situations and argued that such settings often override individual differences (e.g., personality or personal values) in directing behavior. Or at the very least, such situations are likely to substantially restrict the expression of individual differences. An everyday example of a strong situation is a red light on a roadway.

There are three equally weighted parts to this question. First, using a single piece of great literature (a novel, short story, poem, play, or mythology), provide an illustration of a strong situation. What specific characteristics of the situation make it strong and how do those characteristics affect relevant actors in the story? Second, from the perspective of a strong situation, reflect briefly on Stanley Milgram’s Obedience Experiments discussed in class. What made the situation so strong in the Milgram Experiments and what effect did the situation have on those playing the role of “Teacher?” (Briefly summarize the behavioral and emotional effects). Third, using material from the second half of our semester, identify and define a specific Organizational Behavior concept that could be used to depict a strong situation. Briefly sketch how behavior would be shaped in such a situation, highlighting the role of the concept you have chosen.