As an expert in political science and organizational behavior, I have spent considerable time studying the dynamics of political behavior within organizations. Political behavior in organizations can be a complex and nuanced topic, encompassing a wide range of actions and strategies that individuals and groups employ to achieve their goals. It is important to distinguish between legitimate and illegitimate political behavior, as the latter can have detrimental effects on the work environment and overall organizational health.

Legitimate Political Behavior refers to actions taken by individuals or groups within an organization that are aligned with the organization's values, goals, and rules. These actions are typically transparent, ethical, and contribute positively to the organization's objectives. Examples include:


1. Advocacy: Promoting one's ideas or projects in a way that is open and honest, allowing for fair consideration by others.

2. Negotiation: Engaging in discussions to reach mutually beneficial agreements.

3. Coalition Building: Forming alliances with others to achieve common goals, which can enhance the organization's effectiveness.

Illegitimate Political Behavior, on the other hand, involves actions that are deceptive, manipulative, or otherwise unethical. These behaviors often violate the organization's norms and can lead to a toxic work environment. Examples of illegitimate political behavior include:


1. Sabotage: Deliberately undermining a colleague's work to advance one's own interests.

2. Gossip and Slander: Spreading false or harmful information about others to damage their reputation.

3. Nepotism: Favoring relatives or friends for positions or promotions without regard to qualifications or merit.

4. Cover-ups: Concealing mistakes or unethical behavior to avoid responsibility.

The impact of illegitimate political behavior can be profound. It can lead to:

- Decreased Trust: When employees engage in or witness unethical behavior, trust within the organization can erode.
- Lower Morale: A toxic work environment can result in low morale and decreased job satisfaction.
- Inefficiency: Cover-ups and internal conflicts can distract from the organization's core tasks, leading to inefficiencies.
- High Turnover: Employees may choose to leave an organization where they feel they cannot succeed without engaging in unethical behavior.

Addressing illegitimate political behavior requires a commitment from the organization's leadership. This can involve:


1. Clear Policies: Establishing and enforcing clear policies against unethical behavior.

2. Transparency: Encouraging open communication and making decision-making processes transparent.

3. Training: Providing training on ethical behavior and the importance of maintaining a positive work environment.

4. Accountability: Holding individuals accountable for their actions and ensuring there are consequences for unethical behavior.

In conclusion, understanding the difference between legitimate and illegitimate political behavior is crucial for maintaining a healthy organizational culture. By promoting transparency, ethical conduct, and positive political practices, organizations can mitigate the negative impacts of illegitimate political behavior and foster an environment where all employees can thrive.

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Video: Legitimate and Illegitimate Political Behavior in Organizations. Politics are present in just about every organization out there. The main issue is if those politics are legitimate or illegitimate and how they impact the work environment.read more >>