Review of Problems in personnel administration

Abstract

Reviews the book entitled "Problems in personnel administration" by R. P. Calhoon (see record 1950-03414-000 ). The emphasis in this book is on "the understanding of personnel problems: the reasons therefore, with methods of attack and solution so that the feel of actual problems can be more real to the student of personnel administration whether he is in the field or in the classroom." With this objective in mind, Calhoon presents a critical evaluation of present developments in personnel policy and programs. Through the twenty chapters in the book, Calhoon treats the various kinds of problems faced by personnel administrators, classified in the usual way around selection, training, wage and salary administration, etc. For each phase of a personnel program, Calhoon attempts to show its place in the total program, to point out common errors or weaknesses of present practice, and to make suggestions for a sound program. Practical problems arising in actual administration are stressed throughout. Literally hundreds of personnel problems are discussed in this fashion. The book thus becomes a field manual for personnel administrators and a guide for those in training for personnel administration. As such, its value depends upon the validity of the analyses, criticisms, and suggestions made. Unfortunately, there is inadequate research behind many of the opinions and beliefs upon which personnel policies and practices are now decided. To facilitate its use in personnel training situations, either in school or in industry, Calhoon has ended each chapter with practical discussion problems, projects, and role-playing situations. These study aids are well chosen and, if used properly, will vitalize the use of the book as a text. Its greatest weakness, however, is the lack of reference material since there is no attempt to survey the supporting evidence in the literature and there are no lists of suggested readings. Particularly neglected are references to psychological literature; only one psychological journal article and only a few texts in industrial psychology are referred to and those but briefly. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2025 APA, all rights reserved)