Explain the Concepts of Norms and Conformity as They Relate

question 81

Essay

Explain the concepts of norms and conformity as they relate to team dynamics and effectiveness.Use these concepts to explain the apparent basis for the similarities and differences in the behavior of Professors Xu and Patil in the following scenario,and comment on the implications of those differences for the probable outcome of negotiations.Be sure to clarify any assumptions that you make in developing your answer.
The faculty at Western University were recently unionized by an overwhelming majority vote,with no real faculty opposition to the decision.Unfortunately,contract negotiations did not proceed as smoothly.Those negotiations between faculty representatives and the representatives of the administration dragged on for almost three years without any significant progress.Working without a contract and in the absence of salary increases,faculty were becoming angrier and more frustrated.During a faculty rally,the union president exhorted his colleagues to stand up for their right to fair treatment and just compensation by calling for a wildcat strike.Ninety percent of the faculty went out on an illegal strike,and refused to teach their classes for two days.Then the administration obtained a restraining order,requiring the faculty to go back to work.Union officials and the majority of the union members agreed that,in spite of the restraining order,a continued strike was necessary in order to pressure the administration into making concessions.At this point,the following conversation was overheard in the faculty lounge: Professor Xu: "I'm going to teach my classes tomorrow.Union solidarity isn't worth a $500 fine to me!" Professor Patil: "I can understand why you feel that way,but I'm not going to cave in on this one.I'll stick with the union position and strike,because it's the right thing to do.I can afford to pay the fine if I have to.We won't let those administration blood suckers take advantage of us anymore."

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Definitions:

Melatonin

A hormone produced by the pineal gland that regulates sleep-wake cycles and is often used as a supplement to treat sleep disorders.

Sleep Disorders

A group of conditions that affect the ability to sleep well on a regular basis, impacting daily functioning, health, and quality of life.

Cope

The process of effectively dealing with stress or difficulties.

Illness

A state of being sick or afflicted with a disease or disorder, affecting the body or mind.