Work

Regulatory Agency Reputation Acquisition With Regulatees: A Q Methodology Analysis

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: ABSTRACT Empirical studies examining how independent regulatory agencies acquire their reputation with regulatees are scarce. This gap is notable given established links between regulator reputation and regulatee compliance. To address this, this paper presents results of an online, self‐administered Q methodology study with 286 regulatees of 10 Dutch independent regulatory agencies. This study finds respondents generally form impressions of regulators primarily based on direct interactions with agency staff. Second‐hand information, notably from mass and social media, is far less influential. Regulatees differ, however, on whether they form their impressions based on agency‐ versus inspector‐level performance, and based on evaluations of how well the agency serves citizens versus the regulated sector. This study provides theoretical insights into regulatees as a distinct stakeholder audience, and practical implications for regulatory agency reputation management targeting this group.

Source: Public Administration Review

DOI: 10.1111/puar.70124

Authors: Lauren A. Fahy, Erik‐Hans Klijn

Institutions: Utrecht University, Erasmus University Rotterdam

Language: English

Topic: Regulation and Compliance Studies

Subfield: Strategy and Management

Field: Business, Management and Accounting

Domain: Social Sciences

SDG: Peace, justice, and strong institutions

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $4,250