Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) Business Management Practice Test

What does the term alienation refer to in the context of job performance?

1. Employee is overwhelmed with job tasks

2. Employee feels disconnected from social interactions

3. Employee is unclear about rewards and penalties

4. Employee lacks necessary skills for the job

The correct answer is: Employee feels disconnected from social interactions

The term alienation in the context of job performance specifically pertains to the feeling of being disconnected or estranged from one's work environment and the social interactions that occur within it. When employees experience alienation, they may find that they do not relate to their workplace culture or do not feel a sense of belonging within their team, leading to disconnection from colleagues and a lack of engagement with the organization. This state of alienation can adversely affect motivation, job satisfaction, and productivity, as employees who feel isolated may not collaborate effectively with others or invest themselves fully in their work. Such feelings can stem from various factors, including a lack of support from management or peers, insufficient communication, or an unwelcoming organizational environment. While feelings of being overwhelmed, unclear about job expectations, or lacking necessary skills can impact job performance, these scenarios do not inherently describe the concept of alienation. Instead, alienation specifically focuses on the emotional and social detachment workers may experience in relation to their colleagues and the workplace as a whole.