The Impact of Optimism Bias on the Perception of Distributive Justice in the Workplace in the Context of Pay Transparency

This thesis explores the impact of optimism bias on the perception of distributive justice in the workplace in relation to pay transparency. The research utilizes qualitative methodology, including several techniques, primarily in-depth semi-structured interviews. Based on a theoretical framework that integrates the mentioned concepts, a research model is constructed. The results indicate that optimism bias influences the perception of justice in the workplace and pay transparency. Unbiased individuals consider it just if the right to information about one's own salary is held solely by the individual receiving that salary, whereas biased individuals believe it is just for the right to salary information to be accessible to all others as well. This thesis contributes important theoretical and practical insights in the fields of management, psychology, and sociology, leading to a better understanding of the dynamics of justice and remuneration. The research paves the way for further studies focused on the psychological aspects of reward management and justice in a corporate environment.