Document Type : Survey

Authors

1 Associate Professor of Government Management Department, Chalous Branch, Islamic Azad University, Chalous, Iran

2 PhD Student in Public Administration, Chalous Branch, Islamic Azad University, Chalous, Iran

10.30473/ipom.2025.73990.5153

Abstract

In contemporary times, mafia-style political behaviors within organizations overshadow formal rules and established communications. The book and film trilogy The Godfather offers a vivid portrayal of such behaviors and the hidden dynamics underlying these interactions, meticulously revealing their complexities. This study aims to develop a model of mafia political behavior in organizational management, as depicted in The Godfather, and to examine the applicability of these strategies in organizational management. A mixed-methods approach (qualitative-quantitative) was employed. The qualitative phase involved detailed content analysis of the films and book, while the quantitative phase utilized a questionnaire derived from 64 initial items obtained through open coding. These items were refined via three Delphi rounds with seven purposively selected experts in political behavior. The validated outputs informed axial and selective coding. Content validity was confirmed through the Delphi technique, while qualitative reliability was established via Cohen’s Kappa. Quantitative reliability was verified using Kendall’s coefficient of concordance, confirming consistency across all stages. The identified components include: decision-making capacity and power exertion, perception management and influence over others’ thoughts, and strategies for maintaining and augmenting power. The analysis revealed that the political behaviors and power strategies illustrated in The Godfather can aid organizational managers in refining political conduct and managing relationships. By studying these behaviors, managers can enhance their leadership and management skills to navigate complex organizational dynamics effectively.

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