Abstract
D.Comm. (Industrial Psychology)
Management fulfills a key role in organizations in order to co-ordinate and direct individual
efforts towards attaining organizational objectives. Many researchers point out that differences
exist across a broad spectrum of variables between different types of organizations
(e.g, organizations in the private and public sectors). These differences could give rise to
differences in the practice of management.
Against the background of the nature, characteristics and the development of the management
function and styles of management and the broad distinction that could be drawn
between the private sector on the one hand and the public sector on the other hand, the
question arises whether a difference in management style as far as these two types of organizations
are concerned could be identified. In the event of such a difference being identified,
the question arises as to what this difference could be ascribed.
A questionnaire, consisting of various biographical items and which also contained other
instruments of measurement. was used in order to obtain the necessary data from subjects
in the public and private sectors.
It was determined that a marked resemblance existed between the biographical profiles of
managers in the public and private sectors. Managers in the private sector did, however,
appear to have held more leadership positions while at school and at university. Although no statistically significant difference could be determined in the "faith in people"
(people orientation) displayed by managers in the private sector compared to those in the
public sector, it was found that managers in the private sector were inclined to be more
authoritarian. In the sense that this phenomenon could manifest itself in managerial style a
difference in the management styles of managers in the public and private sectors does
exist.
With the exception of hostility as a dimension of personality no statistically significant difference
was found between personality characteristics of managers in the public sector and
those in the private sector.
Significant differences were found in the organizational climate of organizations in the
public and private sectors.
Possible explanations for the above-mentioned findings are presented and recommendations
for further research are made.