An overview of industrial and organisational psychology research in South Africa : a preliminary study.
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Authors
Schreuder, A.M.G.
Coetzee, Melinde
Issue Date
2010
Type
Article
Language
en
Keywords
Industrial and Organisational Psychology Research , South Africa
Alternative Title
Abstract
Orientation: The generation and development of knowledge for the benefit of the discipline of
industrial and organisational psychology by means of research is a core academic focus.
Research purpose: The purpose of this study was to explore general research trends in the field of
industrial and organisational psychology in South Africa from 1950 to 2008.
Motivation for study: Research in the field tends to be influenced by either the changing needs
of business or the occupational or personal fields of interest of academics, which often lead to an
overemphasis on specific subdisciplines at the expense of others. This research aims to critically
review dominant trends in the research focus areas in the field, in the light of present challenges in
the changing work context. Recommendations are also made for possible future research.
Research design, approach and method: A broad systematic review was carried out to analyse
documented published and accredited South African research in the field (n = 2501).
Main findings: Although there has been a proportional decline in personnel psychology research
since 1990, there has been a proportional increase in both organisational psychology and employee
wellness research since 1980 and 1990, respectively. Some areas of the industrial and organisational
psychology field appear to be consistently under-researched.
Practical implications: The insights derived from the findings can be used by academia and
researchers in the field to plan future research initiatives.
Contribution/value-add: The findings provide preliminary insights that contribute to the body of
knowledge concerned with the industrial and organisational psychology field in the South African
context.
Description
Citation
Schreuder, A.M.G. & Coetzee, M. (2010). An overview of industrial and organisational psychology research in South Africa: a preliminary study. SA Journal of Industrial Psychology, 36(1), 1-11.
Publisher
University of Johannesburg
License
Journal
Volume
Issue
PubMed ID
DOI
ISSN
02585200