Why Johnny Won't Cooperate: An Examination of Behavior and Motivation Theory to Understand Resistance to Change in the Workplace,

Abstract

Continuous improvement means continuous change, and with change comes resistance. This paper examines the growth of change in the workplace and the resistance which accompanies change. This paper proposes resistance can be characterized and understood by studying motivation, behavior, and resistance theory. Additionally, one can predict and prevent the occurrence of resistance in organizations undergoing change. This thesis is advanced by synthesizing the motivation theories of Maslow, McGregor, and Merzberg to develop a model which describes behavior as a function of human need and points to the existence of two distinct types of people differentiated by their motivating needs. These needs scope their behavior and help characterize the potential for resistance. This research is augmented by additional study which provides insight regarding those conditions which produce resistance in organizations.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Apr 14, 1995
Accession Number
ADA328961

Entities

People

  • Kenneth P. Van Sickle

Organizations

  • Air War College

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Biomedical
  • Human Systems
  • Weapons Technologies

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Applied Psychology
  • Business Administration
  • Commerce
  • Defense Mechanisms
  • Fringe Benefits
  • Human Behavior
  • Industrial Plants
  • Intercontinental Ballistic Missiles
  • Interpersonal Relations
  • Management Personnel
  • New York
  • Organizational Structure
  • Personnel Management
  • Psychology
  • Students
  • Total Quality Management
  • War Colleges

Readers

  • Organizational Psychology.
  • Powder metallurgy of Titanium alloys.
  • Theoretical Analysis.