Power, Conflict and Resolution in the Workplace: Assignment – Mgt 415, Week 4

Summary

Power dynamics, conflict, and resolution in the workplace are explored. Students learn to identify powerful groups, analyze their power bases, and suggest ways to manage power disparities.

Identify a Powerful Group

Students evaluate their workplace to find a group with significant power. They consider what makes this group powerful, focusing on elements like knowledge, resources, and influence.

Analyze Power Disparity Perception

Students assess whether employees perceive a power imbalance between the powerful group and others. They look at factors like dependency, resource scarcity, and decision-making authority.

Minimize Negative Reactions

Students suggest strategies for managers to reduce conflict arising from power disparities. They consider ways to involve all groups, implement fair policies, and manage differing beliefs.

Conflict and Its Effects

Students discuss how power disparities can lead to conflict, competition, and deviant behavior. They explore how managers can address these issues to maintain a harmonious workplace.

Key terms

Group Cohesiveness

The degree to which members of a group are motivated to stay in the group.

Referent Power

Power based on the attractiveness, respect, or admiration of the person in power.

Organizational Uncertainty

The lack of predictability or clarity in an organization's environment or structure.

Cognitive Dissonance

The mental discomfort experienced by a person who holds two or more contradictory beliefs.

Equitable Policies

Policies that are fair and impartial, treating all groups and individuals equally.

Deviant Behavior

Behavior that violates organizational norms and expectations.

Questions this document helps with

• How can group dynamics influence workplace power structures?
• What factors contribute to the perception of power disparity?
• How can managers address conflict arising from power imbalances?

Summary written with AI from the document's text.