Abstract
M.A. (Industrial Psychology)
Participative management is a growing trend worldwide and Is especially in
South Africa driven by the spirit of democracy. Although South Africa has
moved towards a democratic political dispensation, the establishment of
democracy In the Workplace has been left behind. From Available literature It is
clear that worker participation is a movement that has not developed
systematically but has been influenced by diverse forms of Initiative from
different countries. The diversity has led to general confusion in the discussion
of worker participation In South Africa.
In the said literature the concept of participation is approached on the
assumption that the style of managing work relationships is conditioned by the
culture of the organisation. On this basis an effective management style will be
the most powerful Instrument at the disposal of management to steer South
Africa away from the present abyss of Industrial conflict and low productivity.