Sustainable Development Through the World of Work

Purpose of the Book

The purpose of this book is to translate the science and practice of Industrial-Organizational (I-O) psychology, or work psychology, as it relates to sustainable development efforts to provide evidence-based insights for those who are working toward the greater good.

Accessibility and Target Audience

To maximize the impact of I-O psychology on the greater good, this book is designed to be accessible and is written for readers who do not have a background in I-O psychology or related fields. The volume specifically targets readers who are engaged or want to be engaged in prosocial work across the public and private sectors and who are interested in leveraging the science and practice of I-O psychology to effect prosocial change.

Focus on Sustainable Development Goals

The book highlights the areas where I-O psychology has the most unique, practical, and/or useful takeaways to those who are working to move the needle on one or more of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). While the SDGs provide the overarching structure of the book, the target audience extends beyond those who explicitly incorporate the SDGs in their framing such as those with prosocial efforts who use a different framing (e.g., ESG) or do not use a particular typology. For example, a private sector leader or organization working to improve gender equity (Gender Equality, SDG 5) or historically marginalized groups (Reduce Inequalities, SDG 10) in their communities or workplace would benefit from this book, regardless of how informed they are about the SDGs. Ultimately, this book extends the reach of I-O psychology to enhance societal well-being.