Assessing roadblocks to justice: A model of fair behavior in organizations

Abstract

Organizational justice research traditionally focuses on individuals’ reactions to how they are treated by others. However, little attention has been given to why individuals choose to behave fairly or unfairly in the first place. Our chapter draws on the literature in ethical decision making (Rest, 1986) to identify five distinct factors that influence an individual's decision to treat others fairly. Using this model as a foundation, and drawing on extant research in justice, we explore five different types of roadblocks to fair behavior. We explore the implications of these roadblocks for organizations concerned with creating and maintaining a fair workplace. Finally, we discuss future research suggested by the five factors and some dilemmas, issues, and caveats relevant to the proposed model.

Citation

Ambrose, M.L. and Schminke, M. (2009), "Assessing roadblocks to justice: A model of fair behavior in organizations", Martocchio, J.J. and Liao, H. (Ed.) Research in Personnel and Human Resources Management (Research in Personnel and Human Resources Management, Vol. 28), Emerald Group Publishing Limited, Leeds, pp. 219-263. https://doi.org/10.1108/S0742-7301(2009)0000028009