Does whistleblowing always compromise bureaucratic reputation? Exploring the role of accountability institutions through bureaucratic reputation theory

Abstract

Organizational reputation is subject to losses when whistleblowing occurs. Based on ethics management and bureaucratic reputation theories, we examined whether the loss could vary depending on whistleblowing channels, such as official channels of accountability institutions (U.S. Office of Special Counsel and Office of Inspector General), and unofficial channels (media) and the existence of whistleblowing management from official channels. From survey experiments with U.S. citizens, we found reputational loss may occur after whistleblowing, but it could be mitigated when managed properly through accountability institutions. Our findings suggest the importance of governments showing efforts to resolve moral issues from citizens’ views.