Viewing voice as a voluntary and discretionary behavior, the Theory of Planned
Behavior (TPB, Ajzen, 1991) is used to organize the three psychological mechanisms.
According to the TPB, successful performance of a behavior requires both the
formation of an intention and a sense of control over the behavior (e.g., personal
resources or environmental determinants of behavior). Consistent with this rationale,
it is proposed that when employees decide to speak up, they not only need a sense of
felt obligation to the organization, but also need to believe that speaking up about
organizational affairs is not a risky proposition, and they can really make a difference
through their participation. Without these psychological conditions, the safer route
for employees is to withhold their suggestions and concerns in the workplace.