Humanistic Theory and Human Relations

Impact of Hawthorne's Studies

Dissatisfaction with the rigidity of bureaucratic structures and the results of Hawthorne's studies marked the birth of humanistic theory.

These studies revealed that looking only at the formal structure left an incomplete view of the organization, discovering that environmental factors, such as lighting, did not affect production as much as the attention paid to workers.

It was shown that when employees feel taken into account, respected and listened to by empathetic supervisors, productivity increases significantly and tasks are performed more efficiently and in less time.

This movement arose as a necessary reaction to counteract the dehumanization of work, putting the focus on the emotional and social aspects of the worker.

Focus on the employee as a social individual

The humanist current holds that man's social capacity is what determines his level of competence and effectiveness, rather than his physical or physiological capacity.

Under this paradigm, the work group plays a fundamental role: it can motivate or demotivate the individual depending on the quality of the work environment.

Positive interpersonal relationships, assertive communication and the promotion of shared values create a sense of belonging that naturally drives production.

Research indicates that workers are not driven solely by economic incentives, but by the need to be accepted, understood and valued within their social work environment.

Thus, organizational efficiency depends on a harmonious integration between the goals of the company and the psychological well-being of the staff.

Summary

It emerged as a reaction to bureaucratic rigidity following Hawthorne's studies, which highlighted social factors. Respect and attention were shown to significantly increase labor productivity.

This current holds that man's social capacity determines his level of operational efficiency. The work group plays a fundamental role in motivating or demotivating the individual.

Efficiency depends on the harmonious integration between business goals and psychological well-being. The worker seeks to be accepted, understood and valued beyond simple economic incentives.