Object and Relations Uncertainty
Tony Francolini · Academy of Management Proceedings · 2012
With the goal of advancing the topic of components of uncertainty, I introduce a new uncertainty component-set, labeled object and relations uncertainty. To validate this component-set, I conducted two studies. In the first, I demonstrate that individuals perceive object and relations uncertainty as distinct components. Using multidimensional scaling, I determined individuals categorize uncertainty according to the degree that it concerns missing information related to the objects being exchanged (object uncertainty) or missing information related to the transactors conducting the exchange or the processes that govern the exchange (relations uncertainty). In the second study, I demonstrate the individuals respond differently to object and relations uncertainty. Using a script-based study, individuals chose to limit their behaviour n the presence of relations uncertainty, while choosing to augment information and develop options under object uncertainty. These findings account for response choices that are not accounted for by the degree of uncertainty perceived.