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Decoupling and Intergroup Dynamics in Behavioral Strategy, and a More Integrative Alternative

James D. Westphal

Behavioral Strategy in Perspective

ISBN: 978-1-78756-348-3, eISBN: 978-1-78756-347-6

ISSN: 0742-3322

Publication date: 21 September 2018

Abstract

In this chapter, I draw from theory and research on intergroup relations and decoupling to critique prevailing conceptions of behavioral strategy, and then propose a viable alternative. I suggest that prevailing definitions of behavioral strategy exclude or marginalize theoretical perspectives that should logically be included, which has (1) created undesirable ingroup/outgroup dynamics in the strategy field and (2) resulted in decoupling between behavioral strategy as defined by category leaders and the actual content of research conducted by category members. I contend that this state of affairs has likely reduced the impact of behavioral strategy on other disciplines, and also likely constrained its impact on non-academic audiences. As an alternative, I propose a more interdisciplinary approach that involves identifying behavioral mechanisms that explain how social and psychological processes at different levels of analysis interact and interrelate to affect strategy and performance.

Keywords

  • Behavioral strategy
  • Intergroup dynamics
  • Decoupling
  • Symbolic management
  • Strategic leadership
  • Governance

Citation

Westphal, J.D. (2018), "Decoupling and Intergroup Dynamics in Behavioral Strategy, and a More Integrative Alternative", Behavioral Strategy in Perspective (Advances in Strategic Management, Vol. 39), Emerald Publishing Limited, pp. 41-50. https://doi.org/10.1108/S0742-332220180000039003

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Emerald Publishing Limited

Copyright © 2018 Emerald Publishing Limited

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