Basic underlying assumptions

Definition

Basic underlying assumptions are the deeply embedded, taken-for-granted beliefs that shape how members of an organization perceive, think, and feel about their environment. These assumptions are often so ingrained that they operate unconsciously, guiding behavior and decision-making without explicit acknowledgment. They form the core of an organization’s culture, influencing values, norms, and practices that dictate how members interact with each other and with external stakeholders.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Basic underlying assumptions are often formed over time through shared experiences and can be resistant to change, making them a fundamental part of organizational identity.
2. These assumptions can greatly influence employee behavior, performance, and the overall effectiveness of the organization by shaping how challenges are approached.
3. Understanding these assumptions is crucial for leaders looking to implement change within the organization, as they often reveal the root causes of resistance to new initiatives.
4. When analyzing organizational culture, it's important to differentiate between surface-level elements like artifacts and deeper underlying assumptions that truly drive behavior.
5. Changing basic underlying assumptions requires deep engagement with organizational members and often involves a long-term cultural transformation process.

Review Questions

• How do basic underlying assumptions influence organizational behavior?
  • Basic underlying assumptions influence organizational behavior by shaping the perceptions and actions of employees in a way that often goes unnoticed. These deeply held beliefs dictate how individuals respond to situations, make decisions, and interact with one another. For example, if an organization has an underlying assumption that collaboration is key to success, employees are likely to prioritize teamwork over competition in their daily work.
• What role do basic underlying assumptions play in the change process within an organization?
  • Basic underlying assumptions play a critical role in the change process because they can either facilitate or hinder transformation efforts. When leaders attempt to implement change without addressing these deep-seated beliefs, they may encounter resistance from employees who are aligned with existing assumptions. Therefore, successful change initiatives often require leaders to understand and strategically challenge these assumptions to foster a more adaptable organizational culture.
• Evaluate the implications of failing to recognize basic underlying assumptions when assessing an organization's culture.
  • Failing to recognize basic underlying assumptions when assessing an organization's culture can lead to incomplete analyses and ineffective strategies for improvement. If leaders overlook these deep beliefs, they might mistakenly focus on superficial aspects like policies or procedures without understanding the foundational attitudes that truly drive behavior. This oversight can result in ongoing cultural misalignments, employee disengagement, and a lack of progress toward strategic goals, ultimately compromising the organization's overall success.

Related terms

organizational culture: The shared values, beliefs, and practices that characterize an organization and influence its members' behavior.

artifacts: The visible and tangible elements of an organization's culture, such as dress codes, office layout, and published values.

espoused values: The explicitly stated values and norms that are preferred by an organization, which may not always reflect actual behavior.