Towards a model of normative diagnosis in the organizational context: The evaluative model of normative appeals

Abstract

Purpose: The aim of the present work is to advance in a topic that has received little attention in the literature: normative diagnosis; contributing new empirical evidence to a recently proposed model: The Evaluative Model of Normative Appeals (EMNA). Design/methodology/approach: Two field studies were carried out. In Study 1 we tested the EMNA premises by appraising a normative appeal in a university organizational context (N = 304). In Study 2, we contributed to the predictive validity of the model by analyzing the perception and adherence with two normative appeals in the context of labor organizations (N = 296). Findings: The results of both studies supported the premises of the EMNA and its potential as a normative diagnostic tool for the organizational context. Research limitations/implications: The EMNA should be analyzed in relation to other models in order to complement its explanatory and diagnostic value. The results obtained and the validity of the scales should be tested in new samples from different countries. Practical implications: From an applied point of view, the EMNA represents a tool to support the diagnosis and management of organizational normative appeals in at least two situations: in establishing predictions regarding levels of adherence or willingness to comply, and in monitoring the effectiveness of the measures that have been adopted to modify the perception of certain regulations. Social implications: The transgression of the rules generates large direct (e.g., money laundering, corruption) and indirect losses (e.g., loss of prestige, dysfunctional behavior), so achieving more efficient regulatory management is a constant challenge, both socially and organizationally. The present work represents an advance in the challenge of reducing the levels of transgression and its associated costs. Originality/value: The present work provides complementary evidence that supports the utility of a recently proposed model, as a tool for normative diagnosis in the organizational field.