Extending theorization on bystander intervention, this study examined antecedents of upstanding, a communication practice in which bystanders communicate disapproval to norm violators, using the context of mask wearing during COVID-19. Survey findings from undergraduate students revealed that perceived legitimacy of intervention played a key role in decisions to stand up to mask norm violators. In addition, anticipation of hostile responses from the confronted party and bystander indifference discouraged upstanding behavior or intentions. Participants also expected to receive less support from bystanders in a hypothetical episode as an upstander than what they intended to offer an upstander as a bystander.

This study seeks to explore the co-evolution of OI claims and OI understanding in constructing organizational identity. The study operates on the premise that as a socially constructed phenomenon, organizational members are able to formulate notions about “who we are” through OI understanding. The case is set at DeVine Integrated Food Services Limited, an integrated food manufacturing organization. Research method in the study is grounded theory inductive analysis triangulated through document analysis, grounded theory interviews and ethnographic observation. Findings show that founders’ OI claims are in several relationships with organizational members’ understanding of “who we are.” Expanding current conceptions in the literature, three types of relationships are uncovered: (1) when OI claims and OI understanding match; (2) when OI claims and OI understanding do not match creating room for what I call an OI gap; and (3) when OI understanding does not emanate from OI claims (as presumed in the literature). The study also provides support for social constructionist arguments that organizational identity is co- constructed through social interactions of stakeholders. It contributes a perspective that suggests that OI understanding occupies a central, privileged position as it directly links organizational identity, moderates the relationship between OI claims and OI, and also, may be able to form identity without the input of OI claims as rudder. Practical recommendations are also offered for managers.

One of social media’s influences on public relations has been the connection they provide organizations with stakeholder groups, and the need to recognize new and emerging stakeholder groups and their influence on the organization. One such stakeholder group with social media-borne influence and recognition in public relations is brand ambassadors, who distribute organizational content to social networks. This study examines the meanings and motivations of brand ambassadors in establishing relationships with an organization, and their considerations in representing and distributing content for an organization. In particular, we examined the consideration of corporate social responsibility (CSR) content among brand ambassadors. Findings suggest complex considerations of loyalties, commitments, and stakes within the brand ambassador-organization relationship. CSR content’s value among ambassadors was questionable. The ethical issues of organizational ties, including compensation, are discussed.