| The present study investigated the multiple effects of perceived consideration on the development of fairness perceptions in allocation processes. Specifically, a recipient's perceptions of the consideration he or she received from an allocator during an allocation were studied. To date, this factor has not been investigated extensively (Folger & Cropanzano, 1998).; Of interest were perceived consideration's effects as an individual factor, its effects with voice, and its effects with outcome, all within a single allocation process. As an individual factor, it was predicted that high levels of consideration would enhance perceptions of fairness and supervisor commitment independent of voice and outcome. In addition, it was hypothesized that high levels of consideration would increase perceptions of instrumentality and noninstrumentality. Also of interest was the interaction of consideration and outcome. It was the hypothesized that high consideration combined with a wanted outcome would result in significantly enhanced fairness ratings. Extending the theoretical work on consideration and voice, replication of the voice effect was predicted to occur under certain conditions of consideration.; One hundred thirty-six undergraduate students participated in a laboratory study. They performed three business-like tasks and were told MBA students would act as their bosses. No MBA students actually participated; instead, participants received written feedback prepared in advance. For the third task, participants suggested a work goal to their bosses before their bosses set the final goal. Participants received either high or low voice concerning the work goal, high or low consideration from their bosses about the suggested goal, and were assigned their suggested goal or a higher goal. Ratings of fairness and other measures were taken after the final task.; Results indicated that consideration influences perceptions of fairness and supervisor commitment independent of voice and outcome. Consideration was also shown to positively influence perceptions of instrumentality and noninstrumentality. Additionally, the hypothesis that the combination of high consideration and a wanted outcome would produce significantly enhanced fairness ratings was supported. Other findings showed the voice effect was found under limited circumstances as predicted. |
