Organizational Culture: Edgar Schein Is Introduced As A Sign

Organizational Cultureedgar Schein Is Introduced As A Significant Fig

Organizational Culture: Edgar Schein is introduced as a significant figure in the theory of organizational development, career development, group process consultation, and organizational culture. Briefly provide a historical background on Schein’s theory’s and describe an organization you were or are a part of in terms of these 4 factors: myths/symbols/ritual/language. How do you think those factors affect leadership in that organization? Your response should be approximately 100 to 300 words.

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Edgar Schein, a renowned figure in organizational development, is best known for his pioneering work on organizational culture. His theory emphasizes that organizational culture comprises underlying assumptions, values, and beliefs shared by members, which shape behaviors and perceptions within the organization (Schein, 2010). Schein’s model identifies three tiers of organizational culture: artifacts (visible organizational structures and processes), espoused beliefs and values, and basic underlying assumptions. His contributions have significantly influenced understanding of how culture affects organizational effectiveness, change, and leadership.

Historically, Schein’s work emerged during a period of increased interest in organizational behavior in the mid-20th century. His focus on the deeper, often unconscious elements of culture distinguished his approach from earlier visible-focused models. His theories highlight that effective leadership requires understanding and managing these cultural elements to foster organizational change and development.

Reflecting on my experience within a corporate marketing firm, several of Schein’s cultural elements were prominent. The firm’s myths emphasized a “never-say-die” attitude, establishing resilience as a core value. Its symbols included a logo that embodied innovation and dynamism, and rituals involved weekly brainstorming sessions where creative ideas were celebrated regardless of success. The organization’s language—using terms like “breaking barriers” or “pushing boundaries”—reinforced its innovative culture.

These cultural factors significantly influenced leadership within the organization. Leaders who embraced and exemplified these myths and symbols fostered motivation and a shared sense of purpose. Rituals reinforced team cohesion, while language shaped communication patterns and expectation. Leaders who understood these cultural dimensions could effectively inspire and guide teams, aligning individual behaviors with organizational values, ultimately impacting performance and adaptability.

In conclusion, Schein’s framework helps explain how myths, symbols, rituals, and language serve as foundational elements shaping organizational culture and leadership effectiveness. By recognizing and leveraging these elements, leaders can facilitate cultural alignment and drive organizational success.

References

• Schein, E. H. (2010). Organizational Culture and Leadership (4th ed.). Jossey-Bass.
• Robbins, S. P., & Judge, T. A. (2019). Organizational Behavior (18th ed.). Pearson.
• Trice, H. M., & Beyer, J. M. (1984). Studying organizational culture through artifacts and stories. Academy of Management Review, 9(4), 653-669.
• Deal, T. E., & Kennedy, A. A. (1982). Corporate Cultures: The Rites and Rituals of Corporate Life. Basic Books.
• Schein, E. H. (1992). Organizational Culture and Leadership (2nd ed.). Jossey-Bass.
• Hatch, M. J. (1993). The Dynamics of Organizational Culture. Academy of Management Review, 18(4), 657-693.
• Kunda, G. (1992). Engineering Culture: Control and Commitment in a High-Tech Corporation. Temple University Press.
• Cameron, K. S., & Quinn, R. E. (2011). Diagnosing and Changing Organizational Culture: Based on the Competing Values Framework. Jossey-Bass.
• Schneider, B., Barbera, K. M., & Ehrhart, M. G. (2013). The Psychology of Workplace Safety. Routledge.
• Martin, J. (2002). Organizational Culture: Mapping the Terrain. Sage Publications.