Joseph Peyrefitte

Stability of Rater Leniency: Three Studies

Research has identified rating leniency as one of the most troublesome of rating errors. Little is known about the extent to which the error is a stable rater tendency, although Guilford hypothesiz...

The relationship between graduate student attitudes and attrition

Abstract Although much is known about undergraduate student attrition in the United States, very little is known about graduate student attrition. In this study, researchers sought to identify a set of personal variables to predict graduate student attrition, emphasizing variables that universities can influence. The results indicated that in this sample, graduate student attitudes and intentions were significant factors in attrition: Intent to remain, affective commitment, met expectations, and need for achievement were important predictors of attrition 18 months later.

Leadership and ethics in work groups - A longitudinal assessment

This study explored the relationship between leadership style and individual ethics in work groups. We present a model of how active leadership affects conformity in members’ ethical decision frameworks (formalism and utilitarianism). We tested this model by examining 36 work groups over a 12-week period. Results supported the hypothesis that more active leadership would lead to greater conformity in both types of ethical frameworks. A second hypothesis, that group cohesion would mediate this relationship between leadership style and ethical conformity, was partially supported. Implications of these findings for leadership, groups, and ethics research are discussed.

Vertical integration and economic performance: a managerial capability framework

Despite the indeterminate economic outcomes of vertical integration, several managers and researchers have questioned its viability. The article proposes that a better understanding of the relationship between vertical integration and economic performance may be made by considering the role of managerial capabilities in directing integration. It is argued that a lack of understanding of non‐core businesses and the managerial approach necessary for managing integrated activities contributes to poor integration outcomes. The magnitude of these knowledge deficiencies will be dependent on how far the company moves from its strategic core and on whether corporate managers can abate these deficiencies through knowledge acquisition. Through synthesis of the complex vertical integration literature, a managerial capability framework presents the issues and environmental contingencies involved in the success of the vertical integration effort.

Age, racial, and gender bias as a function criterion specificity: A test of expert testimony

Abstract We examined a common expert witness theme in EEO cases that rating bias in the form of ethnic, age, or gender differences in personnel decisions based on performance appraisals is moderated by criterion specificity or rating scale format. Few studies have investigated this issue and results do not support the position that the more objective or specific criteria for assessment will result in smaller differences between groups based on age, gender or ethnic classification.