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Looking After Number Two? Competition, Cooperation and Workplace Interaction

Author

Listed:
  • Barmby, Tim

    (University of Aberdeen)

  • Sessions, John G.

    (Newcastle University)

  • Zangelidis, Alexandros

    (University of Aberdeen)

Abstract

We build a model of worker interdependence in which two workers can either compete or cooperate and compare performance under either scenario to that of a single worker working in isolation. We show that whilst competition unequivocally reduces performance, cooperation may raise or lower performance. Employing a unique data set in which workgroups are comprised of either one or two workers, we are able to test explicitly for the presence of cooperation. We find empirical support for cooperative behavior.

Suggested Citation

  • Barmby, Tim & Sessions, John G. & Zangelidis, Alexandros, 2013. "Looking After Number Two? Competition, Cooperation and Workplace Interaction," IZA Discussion Papers 7803, Institute of Labor Economics (IZA).
    • Handle: RePEc:iza:izadps:dp7803
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    absence; worker interdependency;

    JEL classification:

    • J33 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Wages, Compensation, and Labor Costs - - - Compensation Packages; Payment Methods
    • J41 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Particular Labor Markets - - - Labor Contracts
    • J54 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Labor-Management Relations, Trade Unions, and Collective Bargaining - - - Producer Cooperatives; Labor Managed Firms

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