Scientific essay: Psychological safety without voice

This essay explores a new perspective on psychological safety in the workplace. While most research assumes that employees who feel safe will openly speak up, the paper challenges this view by examining organizations with strong hierarchies and power differences. It argues that silence does not always signal fear or disengagement; in many contexts, it can be a thoughtful and culturally appropriate response that helps preserve relationships and organizational stability. By introducing the concept of relational psychological safety, the essay offers a more nuanced way to understand how people experience safety at work across different cultural and organizational environments.

Author: Panchanit Snape