Industrial-Organizational Psychology Flashcards
6 cards from real APA practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 Industrial-Organizational Psychology flashcards as text
What is 'organizational citizenship behavior' (OCB)?
Answer: Voluntary behaviors that go beyond formal job requirements and support organizational effectiveness
OCBs are discretionary, extra-role behaviors (e.g., helping colleagues, civic virtue) that are not formally rewarded but contribute to organizational functioning.
Which leadership theory proposes that the most effective leadership style depends on the readiness and maturity of followers?
Answer: Situational leadership theory (Hersey & Blanchard)
Hersey and Blanchard's situational leadership theory argues that leaders should adapt their style (directing, coaching, supporting, delegating) based on followers' task competence and commitment.
What does 'criterion validity' mean in the context of I-O psychology selection tools?
Answer: Scores on a predictor correlate with scores on a measure of job performance
Criterion validity (predictive or concurrent) is demonstrated when predictor scores (e.g., a test) significantly correlate with a criterion of job performance or success.
Which motivational theory proposes that employees are motivated by the expectation that effort will lead to performance, which will lead to valued outcomes?
Answer: Expectancy theory (Vroom)
Vroom's expectancy theory states that motivation is a function of three beliefs: effort leads to performance (expectancy), performance leads to outcomes (instrumentality), and outcomes are valued (valence).
What is a 'structured interview' and why does it have higher validity than an unstructured interview?
Answer: An interview with standardized, job-relevant questions and a scoring rubric, reducing interviewer bias
Structured interviews use predetermined, job-relevant questions and standardized rating scales, which reduce subjectivity and biases, significantly increasing their predictive validity over unstructured formats.
What does the APA Ethical Principles state about psychologists' responsibility in organizational settings when there is a conflict between client and organization?
Answer: Clarify roles, identify the client, and be transparent about potential conflicts
APA ethics require I-O psychologists to clarify at the outset who their client is, their role, and how to manage potential conflicts between individual and organizational interests.