Discuss the three assumptions suggested by Bullis and Stout upon which the concept of assimilation is based

What will be an ideal response?


First, as evident in the above description by Jablin, "individuals as well as
organizations are active agents" (p. 51). Assimilation is a dual process in which
organizations and individuals influence one another. Often, "assimilation" is used as a
synonym for "socialization," but this is an incorrect use of the term. Socialization is but
one half of the assimilation process; individualization efforts by the newcomer must also
be considered when discussing assimilation. Second, "organizations are bounded entities"
(p. 49). Bullis and Stout argued that as we adopt language of "outsiders" and "insiders,"
we "assume that organizations have boundaries through which individuals cross" (p. 49).
Research, then, which likens the organization to a machine, organism, or culture, has
been concerned with articulating the processes that lead to a "successful" boundary
crossing. The third assumption regarding assimilation is that it occurs in phases: "a
relationship develops over time, in stages, between the organization and individual" (p.
49). The stages typically consist of anticipatory socialization, encounter, and
metamorphosis (Jablin, 2001).

Communication & Mass Media

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If you were trying to predict who would be in the “demanding” versus “withdrawing” position during a conflict episode, which piece of information would be most helpful?

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