The role of voice and silence behaviors in software development: a structural equation modeling analysis
Mary Sánchez‐Gordón, Ricardo Colomo‐Palacios, Alex Sanchez Gordon, Aliaksandr Hubin · Information and Software Technology · 2025
Context Most software companies strive to have high-performing teams and mitigate withdrawal behaviors like being present but unproductive. In this context, psychological safety and developers’ perceived impact are suggested as potential drivers of voice and silence behaviors. However, understanding these social aspects of software development entails the incorporation of social science theories. Objective This study aims to empirically explore the relationships among software professionals’ perceived impact, psychological safety, voice and silence behaviors, burnout particularly withdrawal and performance using a theoretical model. Method A survey questionnaire was conducted, resulting in 158 valid responses from software development teams. Then, we analyzed the responses using structural equation modeling (SEM) and a novel semi-confirmatory SEM. All variables were measured using pre-validated instruments. Results The findings supported the theoretical model, showing that psychological safety was more related to silence than voice, whereas perceived impact showed a stronger relationship with voice than with silence. Furthermore, silence contributed to higher burnout, whereas voice alleviated it. In contrast, silence showed a negative association with performance, whereas voice was positively associated with it. Conclusions This study examines the direct effects of perceived impact and psychological safety on voice and silence behaviors. Additionally, it examines the direct effects of these behaviors on burnout and task performance among software professionals. Consequently, the findings offer both theoretical and practical insights.