Bob Knowlton Essays - Knowlton, Ego Defense Mechanisms, Bob Knowlton

When Bob Knowlton was promoted to head of the photon unit in the organization for which he worked, he believed his receiving the position was more due to a miracle than to his own skills and intelligence. The problem with this thinking, however, was that when someone more brilliant and driven arrived in Knowltons group, Knowlton ultimately reacted in a way that not only impacted his own career, but the direction of the company for which he worked. The overall problem that faced Knowlton when Fester joined his team was that of jealousy of the other mans brilliance and accomplishments. Knowlton wondered, in the back of his mind, if Fester had been brought in to replace him, rather than to aid him. As project head and leader of the group, it was Knowltons job to keep control of the meetings. His staff expected it of him, particularly when Fester began criticizing members of the group. Because of his own insecurities, however, he was unable to do so. But instead of facing his feelings squarely, Knowlton engaged in a series of ego-defense mechanisms to build himself up while putting his opponent down. For one thing, he made fun of Fester; pointing out the absurdity of the other mans belt and nicknaming him the genius to his wife and colleagues. Knowlton also sided with disgruntled colleagues when, as the groups leader, it was his job to better integrate the personnel together rather than to take sides. Another way in which Knowlton attempted to build himself up was to praise Fester to his superiors, rather than bringing up his concerns about the man. Because Knowlton, himself, was so insecure in his position, he didnt feel comfortable enough asking his boss, Jerrold, why Fester was actually brought on board. It didnt help the externally driven Knowlton that his boss thought that Fester was wonderful and brilliant, too.