Encyclopedia entry
Person-Environment Fit
Management
Oxford University Press
02/28/2017
DOI: 10.1093/obo/9780199846740-0117
Abstract
Person-environment fit (PE fit) is a conceptual derivative of person-environment interaction models in interactional psychology. Although often referred to as PE fit theory, there is no one defining theory of fit. From early conceptual writings on people being best suited for particular environments, the research on PE fit in work environments has grown to include a wide variety of conceptualizations of what it means to fit, and to what aspects of the environment does one fit “with.” Fit is generally defined by some form of congruence or match between the person and the environment. This match revolves around two basic themes: the meeting of individual needs by the supplies provided in the environment, and the demands of the environment being met by the abilities of the individual. Within the domain of PE fit, more-specific types of fit, including person-organization (PO) fit, person-job (PJ) fit, person-group (PG) fit, and person-person (PP) fit, have evolved. Although person-environment interaction models are articulated as dynamic interactions, with the person and environment mutually influencing each other over time, studies of PE fit most often capture a snapshot of fit at one point in time. The tendency toward PE fit is a naturally occurring phenomenon, leading individuals to seek environments in which they fit, and leading organizations to attract, hire, and retain people who fit. When fit declines into misfit, individuals are highly motivated to restore the balance. PE fit is generally supported as having positive consequences for individuals, including more-positive work-related attitudes, reduced stress and strain, higher performance, and lower likelihood of turnover. Its consequences at higher levels of analysis, such as workgroups or organizations, are less well understood.
Details
- Title: Subtitle
- Person-Environment Fit
- Creators
- Amy Kristof-Brown - Professor, Management and Organizations, University of IowaChristina Li - Graduate Teaching Assistant, Management and Organizations, University of Iowa
- Resource Type
- Encyclopedia entry
- Publication Details
- Management
- DOI
- 10.1093/obo/9780199846740-0117
- Publisher
- Oxford University Press
- Language
- English
- Date published
- 02/28/2017
- Academic Unit
- Bus Admin College; Management and Entrepreneurship
- Record Identifier
- 9984083815102771
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