Part 1: Reflection on Key Learning
A healthy psychological environment in the workplace is crucial for maintaining overall employee wellbeing and productivity. By understanding how to create and sustain a psychologically healthy workplace, employers develop strategies to support the mental health of their staff. It includes initiatives such as providing opportunities for psychological support, such as counseling and mindfulness programs, and promoting positive work-life balance. It involves creating an environment that encourages open conversations about mental health and provides access to resources for those facing mental health issues. By understanding how to develop and maintain a psychologically healthy workplace, employers can make sure their employees feel supported, respected, and safe in their working environment. It helps to foster a better working environment, reduce stress and burnout, and improve morale and productivity. It, in turn, benefits the overall success of the company.
Theories and Perspectives
Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs proposes that employees have needs to be psychologically healthy, such as safety, security, and respect. Herzberg’s Motivation-Hygiene Theory suggests that employees need both motivators and hygiene factors to be psychologically healthy. Motivators include recognition and achievement, while hygiene factors include a safe working environment and job security. The Job Characteristics Model posits that job design is key to creating a psychologically healthy workplace. According to this model, jobs should be meaningful, have autonomy and variety, and have the potential for growth and development. Creating a psychologically healthy workplace is an essential factor in achieving overall success. By providing support for mental health issues, employers can ensure that employees can maintain a healthy work-life balance and remain productive. By promoting open conversations about mental health, employers can create an environment of trust and understanding that can help to reduce stress and burnout. Ultimately, these benefits can lead to increased employee satisfaction, improved morale, and better performance, leading to a more successful business.
A benefit to Future Work
This topic will benefit my future work because I will be better equipped to create and maintain a psychologically healthy workplace. I will be able to use the theories discussed to ensure that employees can fulfil their needs and remain productive. I will be able to identify and address any mental health issues that may arise. I can guarantee that employees remain satisfied and effective by being proactive in creating a psychologically healthy workplace. I will be able to develop strategies to promote work-life balance and create an environment that is conducive to better mental health. These strategies can help to foster a more productive and successful workplace.
Topic relevance to future work
The topic may not be particularly relevant for my future work if an established system exists to create and maintain a psychologically healthy workplace. In this case, I would need to ensure that the existing system is appropriately implemented and that any issues are addressed promptly. Critics of the theories discussed may argue that they do not address the underlying causes of psychological health issues. However, the ideas still provide a framework for creating a healthier workplace and for identifying any potential problems that may arise. The theories provide a starting point for further research into psychological health issues in the workplace.
Part 2: Amazon Organization
The critical theories
The critical theories relevant to the Amazon organization include Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs, Herzberg’s Motivation-Hygiene Theory, and the Job Characteristics Model. Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs proposes that employees have needs they must fulfil to be psychologically healthy, such as safety, security, and respect. Herzberg’s Motivation-Hygiene Theory suggests that employees need both motivators and hygiene factors to be psychologically healthy. Motivators include recognition and achievement, while hygiene factors include a safe working environment and job security. The Job Characteristics Model posits that job design is key to creating a psychologically healthy workplace. According to this model, jobs should be meaningful, have autonomy and variety, and have the potential for growth and development.
Amazon DO and DO NOT
Amazon has implemented initiatives to create a psychologically healthy workplace. For example, Amazon has established an Employee Assistance Program to provide counseling and other support services for employees facing mental health issues. This initiative is explained by Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs and Herzberg’s Motivation-Hygiene Theory, as it provides employees with the safety, security, and respect they need to be psychologically healthy. Amazon offers career development programs and career coaching services, explained by the Job Characteristics Model, as it provides employees with meaningful work and potential for growth and development. There are some aspects of Amazon that do not fit the model. For example, Amazon has been criticized for its long hours and intense working environment, which can lead to burnout and decreased productivity. The theories do not explain what we discussed, as it does not provide employees with a safe working environment or job security. Amazon has faced criticism for its lack of transparency and respect for workers’ rights, which is also not explained by the theories we discussed.
The context for Amazon’s organization
Amazon is an American technology company based in Seattle, Washington. It is the world’s largest online retailer and cloud computing, provider. Amazon was founded in 1994 and has grown to become a multinational corporation with more than 750,000 employees and operations in more than 190 countries. Amazon’s services include e-commerce, cloud computing, digital streaming, artificial intelligence, and more.
Theory fits (aligns)
The theories discussed align with the Amazon organization in providing a framework for creating a psychologically healthy workplace. Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs and Herzberg’s Motivation-Hygiene Theory explain how employees need safety, security, and respect to be psychologically healthy. Amazon’s Employee Assistance Program provides employees with counseling and other support services that fulfil these needs. The Job Characteristics Model explains how meaningful work and potential for growth and development can foster psychological health. Amazon’s career development program and career coaching services provide employees with these opportunities. Overall, the theories discussed to provide a framework that Amazon can use to create and maintain a psychologically healthy workplace.
Critics of the theory
Critics of the theories discussed may argue that they do not address the underlying causes of psychological health issues. These theories provide a framework for creating a psychologically healthy workplace but do not address the root causes of mental health issues, such as discrimination or workplace bias. Some critics may argue that the theories do not consider the complexities of the modern workplace, such as the prevalence of technology and the potential for digital distraction (Querstret et al. 394). Critics may also argue that the theories are outdated and do not consider current workplace trends, such as remote work and flexible hours. Ultimately, the ideas provide a starting point for further research into psychological health issues in the workplace, but they may not explain all aspects of the modern workplace. The challenges of the theories should be further explored to create a comprehensive understanding of psychological health in the workplace.
Amazon Description
Amazon is the world’s largest online retailer and cloud computing, provider. As of 2018, it has a market capitalization of more than $800 billion. According to The New York Times reports, in 2017, Amazon had more than 566,000 employees worldwide. Amazon is based in Seattle, Washington. Amazon is known for its intense working environment and the long hours required by its employees. Herzberg’s Motivation-Hygiene Theory explains the elements that create this cultural climate. Amazon has been criticized for its lack of transparency and respect for workers’ rights. As a former employee, I have first-hand experience with the Amazon culture. I was encouraged to work hard, but my feedback was never solicited during performance evaluations. Some employees who worked in a warehouse without air conditioning experienced heat injuries and had to be taken away by ambulance. There were also reports of employees being disciplined for taking sick days and having their security badges taken away if they were suspected of taking many sick days.
Amazon Relevance to topic
Workplace psychological health is employees’ mental health on a day-to-day basis in the workplace. It is influenced by the organizational values of a company and describes how well employees feel psychologically during their workday. Workplace psychological health has been described as normal if it meets or exceeds a certain threshold. There is debate about whether workplace psychological health can be assessed objectively or if it has to be assessed subjectively. The theories discussed have provided a framework for creating a psychologically healthy workplace but do not objectively measure workplace psychological health. To explore this further, there would need to be some new theory or framework that could provide such an objective measurement.
Analysis
Amazon’s culture has been described as intense and is said to foster psychological health above a certain threshold. According to Herzberg’s Motivation-Hygiene Theory, Amazon can create a culture of psychological health by providing safety, respect, and challenging work environments. These workplace elements help create psychological health because they fulfil employees’ need for security and self-respect. I experienced this while working at an Amazon fulfilment centre in Kentucky. Although the conditions were difficult, the workers got along well and supported each other. It was challenging work, but it made me feel like I could achieve whatever I wanted professionally if I put in enough hard work.
Information source
This information was acquired from various online sources, including research papers and reports from organizations such as the International Labor Organization and the World Economic Forum. Data was obtained from news articles and reviews from employees who have worked at Amazon.
Personal Experience
During my time at Amazon, I have seen great attention given to workplace psychological health, with various initiatives designed to help employees maintain their mental health and wellbeing. Amazon offers regular mental health check-ins with managers and team members where employees can discuss their feelings and concerns in an open and supportive environment. It has been immensely helpful in supporting my colleagues and me and recognizing any signs of distress or anxiety. Additionally, Amazon offers free cognitive behavioral therapy sessions to employees, which have been instrumental in helping me stay focused and productive. The company also promotes physical health and wellbeing through subsidized gym memberships, on-site medical care, and fitness classes. It has been invaluable in helping me take care of my body and mind. Amazon also provides employees access to mental health resources, including self-help tools and a network of mental health professionals. It has been incredibly helpful in giving me the support I need when feeling overwhelmed or anxious. Amazon also has an open and supportive culture where employees are encouraged to discuss their mental health.
Emotions and EQ
Regarding emotional intelligence, Amazon takes a proactive approach by providing employees with tools and resources to increase their EQ. Amazon offers regular training sessions and workshops on emotional intelligence, which have been helpful in teaching me how better to understand my own emotions and those of others. Amazon encourages employees to practice empathy and respect in all interactions, which has been invaluable in helping me develop better relationships with colleagues. Amazon also provides employees access to online resources and books on emotional intelligence to help them further their understanding. It has been vital in helping me become more aware of my emotions and those of others.
Managing Emotions
Amazon also provides employees with resources and support to help them manage their emotions. The company offers regular check-ins with managers and team members to discuss concerns or issues impacting their mental health and wellbeing. Amazon also provides employees access to mental health professionals and counselors to provide support if needed. The company offers wellness programs and activities, such as yoga classes and guided meditation, to help employees relax and destress. It has been extremely helpful in helping me manage my emotions and stay focused.
Managing Motivations
Amazon offers employees a range of motivational tools and resources to help them stay focused and productive. The company provides employees with access to online courses and books on productivity and motivation, which have helped help me stay motivated and on track. Amazon also offers regular rewards and recognition programs to recognize employees for their hard work and dedication. Additionally, Amazon provides employees access to mentors and coaches to help them stay focused and motivated. It has been invaluable in helping me stay on track and achieve my goals.
Managing Power Politics
Amazon takes a proactive approach to managing power politics in the workplace. The company encourages employees to practice respect and empathy in all interactions, which has been instrumental in helping me understand the importance of treating others with respect (Wolff, e145-e152). Amazon also provides employees with access to resources on power politics and conflict resolution, which have been helpful in helping me better manage any conflicts that arise. Additionally, Amazon offers regular training sessions on power politics to help employees understand how to manage any power struggles in the workplace effectively. It has been invaluable in helping me recognize when power politics may be at play and how to handle it respectfully and effectively.
Managing Teams and Groups
Amazon takes a proactive approach to manage teams and groups in the workplace. The company encourages employees to practice open and honest communication to ensure that each team member is heard and respected. Amazon provides employees with access to resources on team dynamics and group dynamics, which have helped help me better understand how to manage teams and groups effectively. Amazon also offers regular training sessions on team dynamics and group dynamics, which have been invaluable in helping me build stronger relationships with my team members and colleagues.
Managing Work Psychology Health
Amazon takes a proactive approach to manage workplace psychological health. The company offers regular mental health check-ins with managers and team members to discuss any concerns or issues impacting their mental health and wellbeing. Additionally, Amazon provides employees access to mental health resources, including self-help tools and a network of mental health professionals. It has been incredibly helpful in giving me the support I need when feeling overwhelmed or anxious. Amazon also promotes physical health and wellbeing through subsidized gym memberships, on-site medical care, and fitness classes. It has been invaluable in helping me take care of my body and mind.
Managing Leadership
Amazon takes a proactive approach to manage leadership in the workplace. The company provides employees with leadership resources, such as books and online courses. It has been helpful in helping me better understand how to be an effective leader. Amazon also offers regular training sessions and leadership workshops that have been invaluable in teaching me how to be a better leader. Amazon encourages employees to practice empathy and respect in all interactions, which has been instrumental in helping me understand the importance of treating others with respect.
Psychological Contrast
Amazon has taken a proactive approach to manage workplace psychological health, offering employees a range of resources and support to help them maintain their mental health and wellbeing. Amazon has been far more proactive in addressing workplace mental health issues than other companies I have worked for in the past. The company offers regular mental health check-ins, free cognitive behavioral therapy sessions, subsidized gym memberships, access to mental health resources, and even fitness classes. These initiatives have been immensely helpful in keeping me, and my colleagues supported and productive. Additionally, Amazon has an open and supportive culture where employees are encouraged to talk about their mental health, which has been invaluable in providing me with the support I need when I am feeling overwhelmed or anxious.
Personality Diversity
Amazon encourages personality diversity in the workplace, recognizing that different personalities bring different strengths and perspectives. The company offers regular training sessions and workshops on personality diversity, which have been helpful in teaching me how to understand better and appreciate different personalities. Additionally, Amazon provides employees with access to resources on personality diversity, such as books and online courses, that have been invaluable in helping me better understand and appreciate different personalities. The company also encourages employees to practice empathy and respect in all interactions, which has been vital in helping me develop better relationships with colleagues.
Organizational Culture
Amazon has an open and supportive organizational culture where employees are encouraged to openly discuss their mental health and wellbeing. The company offers regular mental health check-ins with managers and team members and access to mental health resources, such as self-help tools and a network of mental health professionals. Amazon promotes physical health and wellbeingwellbeing through subsidized gym memberships, on-site medical care, and fitness classes. It has been invaluable in helping me take care of my body and mind. Amazon also encourages employees to practice empathy and respect in all interactions, which has been instrumental in helping me develop better relationships with colleagues.
Workplace Aggression
Amazon takes a proactive approach to manage workplace aggression. The company offers regular training sessions and workshops on workplace aggression, which have helped teach me how to recognize and address any aggressive behavior in the workplace. Amazon provides employees with access to resources on workplace aggression, such as books and online courses, that have been invaluable in helping me better understand how to manage aggression effectively. The company also encourages employees to practice empathy and respect in all interactions, which has been essential in helping develop better relationships with colleagues.
Summary
This paper has discussed the importance of workplace psychological health and the theories used to create and maintain a psychologically healthy workplace. Amazon is a multinational corporation that has implemented initiatives to create a psychologically healthy workplace, such as an Employee Assistance Program and career development programs. The theories discussed to provide a framework for understanding how to create a psychologically healthy workplace but do not provide an objective measurement of workplace psychological health. Further research is needed to explore this topic in more depth. Ultimately, understanding how to create and maintain a psychologically healthy workplace can benefit employees and employers, leading to increased employee satisfaction, improved morale, and better performance.
Work Cited
Quartet, Dawn, et al. “Mindfulness-based stress reduction and mindfulness-based cognitive therapy for psychological health and wellbeingwellbeing in nonclinical samples: A systematic review and meta-analysis.” International Journal of Stress Management 27.4 (2020): 394.
Wolff, Marilyn B., et al. “Differences in work and non-work support associations with job stress, burnout, and wellbeingwellbeing between types of healthcare workers.” Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 63.3 (2021): e145-e152.
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