Examining Red Tape in Public Private Organizations: Alternative Explanations from a Social Psychological Model
Author(s)
Pandey, Sanjay K.; Kingsley, Gordon A.
Abstract
Some individuals are more effective than others at dealing with manifestations of red tape and bureaucracy. Indeed, individual strengths and weaknesses play a significant role in how managers perceive and deal with red tape and bureaucracy. This study explores an alternative explanation for red tape based on individual differences in alienation. We begin by providing a brief overview of research on red tape. We follow this by developing a theoretical model for explaining red tape based on individual differences. After we describe the data collection efforts, we present the results of testing the theoretical model. Finally, we conclude by discussing our findings and their implications for stereotypical notions regarding red tape.