Give me the answer: The paradox of dependency in management learning

Gosling, Jonathan; Case, Peter

Abstract

The paradox of dependency arises when learners must become dependent in order to enhance independence. This double bind often excites demands for ‘quick fixes’ to reassure both students and staff that the dependent relationship can be fruitful. But this attempt to resolve rather than hold the paradox can be counterproductive. We present a structured seven-stage process illustrated by reference to an established executive programme. Our account is informed by psychodynamic concepts of containment, anxiety, individuation, role and task; we conclude with recommendations for management developers more widely.

Citation

Gosling, J., & Case, P. (2013). Give me the answer: The paradox of dependency in management learning

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Publication Date: Oct 1, 2013
• Publicly Available Date: Jun 7, 2019
• Journal: E-organization and People
• Print ISSN: 2042-9797
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Volume: 20
• Issue: 3
• Pages: 57-64
• Keywords: anxiety, communityship, containment, dependency, managing, paradox, psychodynamic, role, roundtables
• Public URL: https://uwe-repository.worktribe.com/output/927145
• Publisher URL: http://www.amed.org.uk/page/our-lively-and-engaging
• Additional Information: Additional Information : This article first appeared in e-Organisations and People Vol 20 No 3, Autumn 2013 and is reproduced by kind permission of AMED www.amed.org.uk