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Expectations Come True: A Study of Pygmalion Effect on the Performance of Employees

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  • Susan Chirayath
  • E. M. Lalgem
  • Sanal Babu George

Abstract

Theory of Pygmalion effect explains how others' expectations about us affect our self-concept and influence our behavior. The verbal and nonverbal messages and strokes, which we receive from significant people in our lives (significant others) influence our self-concept and determine our behavior. This concept can be used as a management tool for increasing the confidence and motivation of employees and thereby enhances the employee productivity. The study was conducted in The Kerala Minerals and Metals Limited (KMML) formerly known as F.X. Pereira & Sons Ltd., which is a Government of Kerala undertaking. KMML is the world's first fully integrated smallest Titanium Dioxide plant. The main objective of the study was to assess the positive signs given by the superiors to the subordinates. The secondary objective was to identify the factors that lead to the employees' effectiveness and efficiency. The study was conducted among 150 employees of KMML from different levels of the organization like the skilled workers, first line supervisors and office staff. Factors like non-verbal and verbal messages, opportunities for self-development, receiving feedback from superiors, etc, play a major role in the positive attitudinal behavior of the employees. It has also been found that only 37% of the respondents get emotional support from their superiors.

Suggested Citation

  • Susan Chirayath & E. M. Lalgem & Sanal Babu George, 2009. "Expectations Come True: A Study of Pygmalion Effect on the Performance of Employees," Management and Labour Studies, XLRI Jamshedpur, School of Business Management & Human Resources, vol. 34(1), pages 125-144, February.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:manlab:v:34:y:2009:i:1:p:125-144
    DOI: 10.1177/0258042X0903400109
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