Situation strength theory proposes the way personality translates into behavior depends on the situation. Strong situations show us what the right behavior is, pressure us to exhibit it, and discourage the wrong behavior. In weak situations, conversely, “anything goes,” and thus we are freer to express our personality in behavior. Researchers have analyzed situation strength in organizations in terms of four elements.

Clarity, or the degree to which cues about work duties and responsibilities are available and clear. Jobs high in clarity produce strong situations because individuals can readily determine what to do. Consistency, or the extent to which cues regarding work duties and responsibilities are compatible with one another. Jobs with high consistency represent strong situations because all the cues point toward the same desired behavior.

Constraints, or the extent to which individuals’ freedom to decide or act is limited by forces outside their control. Jobs with many constraints represent strong situations because an individual has limited individual discretion. Consequences are the degree to which actions have important implications for the organization Jobs with important consequences represent strong situations because the environment is heavily structured to guard against mistakes.

Some researchers have speculated that organizations are strong situations because they impose rules, norms, and standards that govern behavior. These constraints are usually appropriate. Managers need to recognize the role of situation strength in the workplace and find the balance.