Chapter 2. Individual Differences, Values, and Diversity

chapter at a glance

The recognition of individual differences is central to any discussion of organizational behavior. This chapter addresses the nature of individual differences and describes why understanding and valuing these differences is increasingly important in today's workplace. Here's what to look for in Chapter 2. When finished reading, check your learning with the Summary Questions & Answers and Self-Test in the end-of-chapter Study Guide.

WHAT ARE INDIVIDUAL DIFFERENCES AND WHY ARE THEY IMPORTANT?

Self-Awareness and Awareness of Others

Components of Self

Development of Self

WHAT IS PERSONALITY?

Big Five Personality Traits

Social Traits

Personal Conception Traits

Emotional Adjustment Traits

HOW ARE PERSONALITY AND STRESS RELATED?

Sources of Stress

Outcomes of Stress

Managing Stress

WHAT ARE INDIVIDUAL VALUES?

Sources of Values

Types of Values

Values across National Cultures

WHY IS DIVERSITY IMPORTANT IN THE WORKPLACE?

Importance of Diversity

Types of Diversity

Valuing and Supporting Diversity

In 1999, when Xerox was making a succession decision, everyone was surprised to see Anne Mulcahy, a relative newcomer, selected as CEO. Dubbed the "accidental CEO" because she never aspired to the job, she quickly acted to recruit the best talent she could find. A key player turned out to be Ursula Burns. Like Mulcahy, Burns was an unusual choice. Raised in a housing project on Manhattan's Lower East Side by a hard-working single mother who cleaned, ...

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