A dual-path model of observers' responses to peer voice endorsement: The role of instrumental attribution

Abstract

Peer voice endorsement is widespread in the workplace. Drawing on social information processing theory and sociofunctional view, this paper proposes that observers' (both negative and positive) psychological and behavioral responses to peer voice endorsement depend on their instrumental attribution for peer voice. Specifically, when observers have a higher level of instrumental attribution, peer voice endorsement is more positively associated with status threat, in turn affecting observers' negative gossip. When observers have a lower level of instrumental attribution, peer voice endorsement is more positively associated with perceived peer competence, which in turn affects observers' role modeling proactive behavior. These results are largely supported by data from a multi-wave field study and two experimental designs. The theoretical and practical implications of this study and future research directions are presented.