Examining the Relationship Between Trust in Supervisor–Employee Relationships and Workplace Dissent Expression

Abstract

Organizational dissent can be a valuable, constructive form of communication in organizations and is influenced by a variety of communication factors. This study explores how employees' trust in their supervisors relates to dissent expression. Data collected from 179 full-time employees were analyzed using correlational analysis. Results indicated trust in supervisors was significantly related to employees' use of articulated dissent. Additionally, there was a significant, negative relationship between trust in supervisors and latent and displaced dissent. Limitations and implications are discussed.