A conceptual analysis of the use of systems-psychodynamics as an organisation development intervention: A neuroscientific perspective

Résumé 0

ORIENTATION: Systems-psychodynamics as a consulting stance offers learning experiences that not only have links with the first organisation development interventions but also remains a popular approach for organisational consultation. Here, the argument is made that neuroscientific principles, as embedded in neuropsychotherapy, offer a lens for evaluating and improving the effectiveness of systems-psychodynamic interventionsRESEARCH PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to hypothesise about the effectiveness of systems-psychodynamic interventions, and to offer propositions for improvementMOTIVATION FOR THE STUDY: Studies on the effectiveness of systems-psychodynamic interventions from outside the same network of science-practitioners, are limited. Furthermore, no evidence of a similar study using a neuroscientific framework could be found in the English literatureRESEARCH APPROACH/DESIGN AND METHOD: This was a conceptual analysis with theory adaption as an approach. Systems-psychodynamics was chosen as domain theory and was discussed first, followed by neuropsychotherapy as method theoryMAIN FINDINGS: It was hypothesised that, using the lens of neuropsychotherapy, systems-psychodynamics - with its focus on insight into unconscious processes - would most likely enhance fear-based learning. To facilitate transformational learning, the experience could be augmented through a better alignment with neuroscientific principlesPRACTICAL/MANAGERIAL IMPLICATIONS: There is a need to augment the role of the consultant as science-practitioner with the skills of a reflective practitioner. This will enable consultants to continuously critique and adapt preferred interventions, by integrating new neuroscience-related knowledge in those interventionsCONTRIBUTION/VALUE-ADD: This study contributes to the literature on organisation development interventions, and the reflective practice of the science-practitioner