Stewart, I., Barnes-Holmes, D., Barnes-Holmes, Y., Bond, F., &; Hayes, S.C. (2006). Relational Frame Theory and Industrial/Organizational Psychology. In S.C. Hayes, F.W. Bond, D. Barnes-Holmes, & J. Austin (Eds.), Acceptance and mindfulness at work: Applying acceptance commitment therapy and relational frame theory to organizational behavior management. New York: Plenum Press.
The current paper argues that a Relational Frame Theory account of complex human behavior including an analysis of relational frames, relational networks, rules and the concept of self can provide a potentially powerful new perspective on phenomena in the applied science of industrial/organizational (I/O) psychology. In this article, we first provide a brief description of I/O psychology itself. We then expand on the core features of RFT described earlier in this special issue, including how it addresses rule-governance. Finally we illustrate, using relevant examples, the ways in which these concepts can be used to understand behavior in the I/O arena.