APA Industrial-Organizational Psychology 2

Question 1

What is 'organizational citizenship behavior' (OCB)?

Accepted Answer

Voluntary behaviors that go beyond formal job requirements and support organizational effectiveness

Answer

OCBs are discretionary, extra-role behaviors (e.g., helping colleagues, civic virtue) that are not formally rewarded but contribute to organizational functioning.

Question 2

Which leadership theory proposes that the most effective leadership style depends on the readiness and maturity of followers?

Accepted Answer

Situational leadership theory (Hersey & Blanchard)

Answer

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.

Question 3

What does 'criterion validity' mean in the context of I-O psychology selection tools?

Accepted Answer

Scores on a predictor correlate with scores on a measure of job performance

Answer

Criterion validity (predictive or concurrent) is demonstrated when predictor scores (e.g., a test) significantly correlate with a criterion of job performance or success.

Question 4

Which motivational theory proposes that employees are motivated by the expectation that effort will lead to performance, which will lead to valued outcomes?

Accepted Answer

Expectancy theory (Vroom)

Answer

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).

Question 5

What is a 'structured interview' and why does it have higher validity than an unstructured interview?

Accepted Answer

An interview with standardized, job-relevant questions and a scoring rubric, reducing interviewer bias

Answer

Structured interviews use predetermined, job-relevant questions and standardized rating scales, which reduce subjectivity and biases, significantly increasing their predictive validity over unstructured formats.

APA - American Psychological Association Practice Test

APA - American Psychological Association Practice Test

APA Industrial-Organizational Psychology 2