The need for and meaning of positive organizational behavior

TLDR

Positive psychology has inspired a call for a proactive, strengths‑based approach to organizational behavior. The essay argues that the OB field must adopt a positive organizational behavior framework that transcends superficial positivity, leveraging theory‑driven research to identify measurable, developable psychological capacities and stimulate new theory, research, and practice. POB is defined by criteria that include unique, state‑like psychological capacities that can be validly measured and developed, with confidence, hope, and resiliency cited as exemplar constructs. © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Abstract

Abstract This essay draws from the emerging positive psychology movement and the author's recent articles on the need for and meaning of a positive approach to organizational behavior. Specifically, the argument is made that at this time, the OB field needs a proactive, positive approach emphasizing strengths, rather than continuing in the downward spiral of negativity trying to fix weaknesses. However, to avoid the surface positivity represented by the non‐sustainable best‐sellers, the case is made for positive organizational behavior (POB) to take advantage of the OB field's strength of being theory and research driven. Additional criteria for this version of POB are to identify unique, state‐like psychological capacities that can not only be validly measured, but also be open to development and performance management. Confidence, hope, and resiliency are offered as meeting such POB inclusion criteria. The overall intent of the essay is to generate some positive thinking and excitement for the OB field and ‘hopefully’ stimulate some new theory building, research, and effective application. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.