What is circular response?

Mary Parker Follett's (1868-1933) groundbreaking organization theory idea that refers to the complicated and dynamic manner in which individuals respond to each other and how the situation progresses. The concept of circular response has significant implications for how individuals relate to one another. Specifcally, in order to understand social situations, it must be recognized that an individual does not respond to a rigid, static environment, but rather to one that is constantly changing and exerting new demands as well as pressures on the individual. Morevover, individuals are constantly changing the environment and their behaviors.