Through the three studies, this dissertation intends to make contributions in four
ways. First, the content domain of voice behavior is clarified and a new measure is
developed for it. In this dissertation, a two-dimensional structure of voice behavior is
proposed: promotive voice and prohibitive voice. The former is defined as attempts
to propose new ideas/opinions to improve the overall functioning of the work unit or
organization. In the workplace, the good intention behind constructive suggestion is
easily recognized. It is likely to be encouraged and appreciated by the management
and thus carries little risk for the individuals who engage in such voice. The latter,
prohibitive voice, involves speaking up about the dysfunctional aspects of work
practices (e.g., harmful behavior, outdated procedures, rules or policies) with the
intention of stopping them in order to improve the overall functioning of the work
unit or organization. This form of voice behavior is likely to be perceived as personal
criticism and complaint by some stakeholders at work. Thus, it carries more risk than
promotive voice. Based on a content analysis of the measurement items of voice
behavior in the literature and the inductive research by Farh et al. (2002; 2004), a
two-dimensional measure of voice was developed and validated in Study 1.