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Quiet environments and the intentional practice of silence: Toward a new perspective in the analysis of silence in organizations

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  • Asselineau, Alexandre
  • Grolleau, Gilles
  • Mzoughi, Naoufel

Abstract

While nonspeech communication and “metaphorical” silence (in opposition to voice) have benefited from a considerable academic attention, less is known about quiet environments and the intentional practice of silence. We theorize these silences as potential catalysts of internal and collective reflection. Such silences can strongly impact individual and organizational processes and outcomes, notably in the workplace. The meaning, valence, and effects of these silences are highly context- and perspective-dependent. By characterizing and studying these silences and their effects, we show how they are functional or dysfunctional to individuals or organizations. These silences can notably serve as emotion regulators and generate an environment favorable to individual and collective decision making. Examining what is lost by individuals and organizations due to a lack of these silence and what can be gained with a better harnessing of their power is promising.

Suggested Citation

  • Asselineau, Alexandre & Grolleau, Gilles & Mzoughi, Naoufel, 2024. "Quiet environments and the intentional practice of silence: Toward a new perspective in the analysis of silence in organizations," Industrial and Organizational Psychology, Cambridge University Press, vol. 17(3), pages 326-340, September.
    • Handle: RePEc:cup:inorps:v:17:y:2024:i:3:p:326-340_11
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Grolleau, Gilles & Mzoughi, Naoufel & Peterson, Deborah & Tendero, Marjorie, 2022. "Changing the world with words? Euphemisms in climate change issues," Ecological Economics, Elsevier, vol. 193(C).
    2. Frances J. Milliken & Elizabeth W. Morrison & Patricia F. Hewlin, 2003. "An Exploratory Study of Employee Silence: Issues that Employees Don’t Communicate Upward and Why," Journal of Management Studies, Wiley Blackwell, vol. 40(6), pages 1453-1476, September.
    3. Linn Van Dyne & Soon Ang & Isabel C. Botero, 2003. "Conceptualizing Employee Silence and Employee Voice as Multidimensional Constructs," Journal of Management Studies, Wiley Blackwell, vol. 40(6), pages 1359-1392, September.
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