University of Central Florida (UCF) MAN3025 Management of Organizations Practice Exam 1

The phenomenon where one person's expectations influence another person's actions to fulfill those expectations is known as a self-fulfilling prophecy. This concept describes a situation in which an individual's beliefs or expectations about another person or situation can lead to behavior that causes those beliefs to come true.

For instance, if a teacher believes that a particular student will excel and expresses this belief, the student is likely to receive more attention and encouragement, which in turn may lead the student to perform better. The initial expectation has a direct impact on the student's behavior and outcomes, thus fulfilling the prophecy that the teacher set in motion.

This concept is significant because it highlights how perceptions and expectations can shape realities within organizations, influencing motivation, performance, and interpersonal relationships. Understanding self-fulfilling prophecies helps managers and leaders recognize the potential impact of their expectations on team dynamics and individual performance, enabling them to foster a more positive and productive work environment.