Abstract
Orientation: Previous research findings (qualitative and quantitative) suggest that the Positivity Projective Technique is a valid associative technique for eliciting positive constructs and concepts. The challenge taken up by this study was to move beyond the technique’s associative nature, and to explore the enactment thereof in the workplace.
Motivation for the study: This study was motivated by the following question: Does the metaphor-logo, embedded in the Positivity Projective Technique, enable participants to construct a theory for positive action in an organisational setting?
Research approach and method: A post-modern, social constructionist approach was followed via the use of a positive action-research method, appreciative inquiry (AI). The metaphor-logo was included in all the questions of a protocol that guided the participants through the phases of the appreciative inquiry cycle.
Main findings: The metaphor-logo enabled participants to collectively construct a theory for positive action, namely to discover their organisation’s positive core, which broadened their minds to the extent that a positive dream for the organisation was envisioned. A social architecture for making the dream actionable, was constructed, as well as a positive destiny for future action.
Applications: Methodologically, this study incorporated the use of image research into Industrial Psychology methodology. Theoretically, this study contributed to the positive image–positive action relationship. Practically, the logo-metaphor used in the study may be used as a valid tool for both associative and enactment purposes.
Contribution: In view of the findings, it is suggested the name “Positivity Projective Technique” be expanded to “Positivity Projective and Enactment Technique”. As such it may be applied to brand positivity in the workplace.
M.Com. (Industrial Psychology)