Presenting a Conceptual Model of Pluralistic Ignorance in Governmental Organizations

Fatemeh  Nabizadeh Shahrbabaki; Hamid Taboli; Melikeh  Beheshtifar

Authors

Fatemeh Nabizadeh Shahrbabaki Student, Department of Management, Raf.C., Islamic Azad University, Rafsanjan, Iran Author https://orcid.org/0009-0002-6915-6276
Hamid Taboli Associate Professor, Department of Public Administration, Payame Noor University, Tehran, Iran https://orcid.org/0000-0002-5712-4288
Melikeh Beheshtifar Department of Management, Raf.C., Islamic Azad University, Rafsanjan, Iran Author https://orcid.org/0000-0002-2157-288X

Keywords:

pluralistic ignorance, intragroup dynamics, team mental models, groupthink, governmental organizations

Abstract

Pluralistic ignorance is a condition in which an individual expresses behaviors and opinions that contradict their actual beliefs because they mistakenly assume that the majority of surrounding individuals hold views different from their own. The purpose of the present study was to present a conceptual model of pluralistic ignorance in governmental organizations. This study employed a qualitative strategy and thematic analysis method. In terms of purpose, the research was applied, and in terms of data collection method, it was descriptive-survey research. The statistical population consisted of experts and specialists familiar with the fields of behavioral management and human resource management in universities and governmental organizations in Kerman Province. Snowball sampling was used to identify these experts until theoretical saturation was achieved. In this study, theoretical saturation was reached after conducting 15 interviews. Data were collected through both library-based and field methods. The research data collection instruments included document analysis and semi-structured interviews. The obtained data were analyzed using MAXQDA software. The conceptual model of pluralistic ignorance consisted of one overarching theme, three organizing themes, and 15 basic themes. Based on MICMAC analysis, the themes of perceptual reality construction, organizational illusionism, social conformity, and cognitive homogenization demonstrated high levels of dependency and driving power; therefore, they were considered linkage variables. Furthermore, the themes of superficial convergence, norm-oriented hypocrisy, ethical tolerance, mediating rationality, and compromise orientation exhibited high dependency and low driving power and were therefore classified as dependent variables.

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