Researchers have found that the characteristic of voice behavior explains why it
is very difficult to predict (e.g., Fuller et al., 2006; Withey & Cooper, 1989). In order
to explain voice behavior, researchers need to specify the contextual forces that
systematically shape such behavior (Morrison & Milliken, 2000). Individual-level
variables alone may not be able to adequately explain employee voice behavior.
Subscribing to a contextual approach, in this dissertation, voice behavior is viewed as
a joint product of individual attribute and important work contexts. While
considering the effect of individual difference on voice behavior, the direct effect of
work contexts and their moderating effect on the relationship between individual
disposition and voice behavior is proposed. The integrated framework is expected to
increase the power in explaining why people speak up with their suggestion/concerns
or simply withhold them in the workplace.