Effects of increased information on union commitment, participation and perception of union leaders

Abstract

Perceived instrumentality and socialization experiences are strong predictors of union commitment. Unions can demonstrate instrumentality by keeping members informed of important issues and activities taking place in the union. This study examines the effect of increasing information about the union on rank and file members' commitment to, and participation in, the union. The introduction of a newsletter was expected to provide union members with more information about union activities and projects and give members a voice with which to communicate, thereby improving attitudes toward the union and increasing the perceived instrumentality of the union. In addition to the newsletter, shop stewards were instructed to solicit and share information with union members and to invite union members' input with regard to the newsletter. Union leaders, particularly shop stewards, play an important role in union members' socialization. Their individual consideration behaviors and use of charismatic leadership was expected to influence union attitudes and commitment. Results were more modest than expected. It is suggested that the newsletter in combination with an increase in shop stewards' transformational leadership behaviors might have exerted a more powerful effect on members attitudes toward the union local. (Abstract shortened by UMI.)