Image risk as a deterrent to remedial voice: The moderating effect of proactive personality and moral identity

Abstract

We examine perceptions of image risk as a determinant of remedial voice in response to experienced interpersonal mistreatment. We propose that when a voice opportunity arises, perceptions of image risk inhibit the decision to remedial voice. Further, we hypothesize that political skill, proactive personality, and moral identity attenuate the negative relationship between perceived image risk and remedial voice. Using one-month time-lagged data from 177 employees, we demonstrate that perceived image risk is negatively related to remedial voice and that high moral identity and high proactive personality attenuate the perceived image risk–remedial voice relationship. These findings suggest that, while perceptions of image risk may inhibit remedial voicing, the relationship is limited by individual differences.