How does the culture of an organization typically behave over time?

The culture of an organization is fundamentally a set of shared values, beliefs, and norms that shape the behavior of its members. Because this culture is deeply embedded in the organization's practices and traditions, it tends to be relatively enduring and resistant to change. This lasting nature is due to several factors: the time and effort invested in establishing a particular culture, the emotional ties employees have to the cultural norms, and the socialization processes through which new employees are integrated into the existing culture.

While leadership can influence organizational culture, significant changes often require concerted efforts over time, including buy-in from multiple levels within the organization. Consequently, even if there are shifts in management styles or strategic direction, the core elements of an organization’s culture usually do not change without deliberate, sustained efforts. Thus, option C accurately captures the essence of how organizational culture behaves over the long term, highlighting its stability compared to other aspects of organizational dynamics.