Medium link: https://medium.com/p/4ebdbc5e6e42?postPublishedType=initial
Course Relevance
This case narrative is suitable for the following BBA/B.Com courses:
- Human Resource Management (HRM): Explores identity, self-expression, and motivation in workplace settings.
- Organizational Behaviour (OB): Examines individual attitudes, social influence, and cultural norms in professional environments.
- Leadership & Personal Branding: Highlights how authenticity and consistency shape informal leadership and influence.
- Workplace Culture & Diversity: Discusses dress codes, cultural expectations, and inclusion in organizational spaces.
- Psychology of Motivation & Behaviour: Connects intrinsic motivation and social learning with behavioural change.
Academic Concepts
This narrative draws on several behavioural and psychological frameworks:
- Social Learning Theory (Albert Bandura, 1977): Individuals learn behaviours by observing others—seen in Malti and colleagues adopting saree-wearing.
- Self-Concept and Identity Theory: Personal identity is expressed through consistent behaviour and choices like attire.
- Self-Determination Theory (Edward Deci & Richard Ryan, 1985): Emphasizes autonomy and intrinsic motivation in sustained behavioural choices.
- Normative Social Influence: Peer pressure and societal expectations shape behavioural conformity or resistance.
- Symbolic Interactionism: Clothing acts as a symbol through which identity and meaning are constructed socially.
Background
The narrator, an Assistant Professor with over 15 years of experience, began her teaching career in Greater Noida in 2010 before moving to Bengaluru in 2017.
In Greater Noida, institutional expectations around faculty attire were flexible, requiring only formal and decent dressing. However, in Bengaluru, a stronger cultural norm prevailed—faculty members in many colleges were expected to wear sarees regularly.
While this expectation initially posed a practical challenge due to a limited wardrobe, a turning point came when a family member generously shared an extensive collection of sarees, enabling the narrator to embrace this cultural norm fully.
Situation
Initially, saree-wearing was a professional requirement. Over time, it evolved into a personal choice and identity marker.
The narrator began wearing sarees not only to work but across all aspects of life—social outings, shopping, and travel. This shift was influenced by:
- A growing sense of confidence and comfort
- A perception that sarees enhanced elegance and self-image
- Increased exposure to diverse saree styles, including cotton varieties
However, this consistent choice also invited mixed reactions:
- Some peers encouraged conformity to modern casual attire (jeans, trousers) in social spaces
- Others admired and appreciated the uniqueness and confidence reflected in her style
This tension reflects a broader conflict between individual authenticity and social conformity.
Key Behavioural Patterns & Interventions
1. Identity Assertion through Consistency
The narrator maintained a consistent personal style despite external pressures. This demonstrated strong self-concept and autonomy.
2. Resistance to Normative Pressure
Rather than conforming to peer expectations, she exercised agency in her choices, reinforcing intrinsic motivation.
3. Informal Influence and Role Modelling
Without explicit intent, her behaviour influenced others:
- Colleagues began reconsidering saree-wearing
- Students and faculty expressed admiration
- Public interactions reinforced her identity
4. Social Reinforcement and Feedback Loops
Positive feedback from peers, students, and acquaintances strengthened behavioural commitment.
5. Behavioural Diffusion (Ripple Effect)
The most significant outcome emerged through Malti, a regular acquaintance during daily commutes:
- Initial interaction: Compliments and casual conversations
- Observation over time: Consistent exposure to saree-wearing
- Behavioural adoption: Increased saree usage in her own life
- Reinforcement: Positive response from her family and social circle
Turning Point
A chance encounter after several months revealed a meaningful outcome. Malti shared that she had begun wearing sarees more frequently, inspired by observing the narrator. She even chose a saree for her birthday—an act that surprised her family but brought her personal joy.
This moment highlighted the power of unintentional leadership and influence through everyday behaviour.
Outcome
- The narrator developed a strong, confident personal identity
- Saree-wearing transitioned from obligation to intrinsic joy
- Social influence extended beyond immediate professional circles
- Observers like Malti experienced behavioural change and increased confidence
- The act of dressing became a medium of empowerment and cultural continuity
Epilogue: Lessons Learned
- Authenticity can be a powerful form of influence.
- Behavioural consistency reinforces identity and credibility.
- Social change often begins with subtle, everyday actions.
- External validation can strengthen intrinsic motivation, but is not its foundation.
- Cultural practices can be revitalized through personal ownership and visibility.
Teaching Note
Learning Objectives
After engaging with this case, students will be able to:
- Analyze how personal identity influences professional behaviour
- Understand the role of social learning in shaping habits
- Evaluate the impact of informal leadership and role modelling
- Reflect on the balance between conformity and individuality
- Explore how everyday actions contribute to cultural and behavioural change
Key Discussion Points
- How do individuals negotiate personal identity within institutional norms?
- Can everyday behaviour act as a form of leadership?
- What role does observation play in behavioural change?
- How can organizations encourage authenticity without disrupting cohesion?
Suggested Classroom Activities
- Role Reflection Exercise:
Students identify one personal habit or style that reflects their identity and discuss its social impact. - Debate:
“Should individuals prioritize authenticity over social expectations in professional spaces?” - Observation Task:
Students observe a behavioural trend in their environment and analyze it using Social Learning Theory.
Discussion Questions
- How does intrinsic motivation differ from socially driven behaviour in this case?
- In what ways can informal role models influence cultural practices?
- How can organizations create spaces where individuality is expressed without conflict?
