What does role ambiguity refer to in organizational behavior?

Role ambiguity in organizational behavior refers to a situation where an individual lacks clarity about their job responsibilities, expectations, and the scope of their duties. This uncertainty can lead to confusion regarding what is expected of them and how they should perform their tasks. When employees experience role ambiguity, they may feel stressed, unable to prioritize their work effectively, and may even suffer from decreased job satisfaction and performance.

The other choices highlight conditions that indicate clarity and well-defined expectations. For instance, clear responsibilities and expectations, a strong understanding of job requirements, and well-defined goals and targets all contribute to a structured work environment where employees know precisely what they are supposed to do. However, these conditions contrast with role ambiguity, which inherently signifies a lack of clarity and direction in one's role within an organization. Therefore, the correct answer aptly encapsulates the essence of role ambiguity in a workplace context.