A predictive study of voting behavior in a representation election using union instrumentality and work perceptions

A literature-based model of the unionization process is presented. The process is defined in terms of instrumentality perceptions, behavioral intent, and actual behavior components. The primary determinant of the process is shown to be the instrumentality perceptions of the potential members. The model is tested via discriminant analysis and step-wise regression in a sample of hospital nurses. The results suggest the overriding importance of instrumentality perceptions in the determination of voting behavior. In excess of 75% of the votes were accurately predicted from knowledge of the respondent's instrumentality perceptions alone. Several avenues for future research were suggested, including an expanded view of personal characteristics and extension of expectancy theory to employee voting behavior.