What is it about?
This study reveals how our brains process the feeling of "fitting in" at work, showing it involves both thinking and emotions. Feeling a strong fit activates brain areas tied to empathy and social understanding, more so than simply feeling satisfied with a job.
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Why is it important?
Organizations can benefit by understanding that employees feel like they “fit” in for different reasons—how they think, feel, and relate to others. Managers can be trained to identify these sources, enabling them to support employees better. For example, if employees believe they align with the company’s values because of a leader, rather than the company itself, that’s useful to know. Additionally, if teamwork and harmony are priorities, it may be beneficial to build teams based on emotional and social fit, rather than just skills or values. This can lead to stronger, more connected teams.
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: A neuropsychological examination of the nature of perceived person–environment fit., Journal of Applied Psychology, June 2025, American Psychological Association (APA),
DOI: 10.1037/apl0001294.
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