This article suggests that our understanding of extra-role behaviors s
uch as organizational spontaneity may be enhanced by considering the c
ontext in which these behaviors occur. The context may provide individ
uals with either opportunities to engage in forms of organizational sp
ontaneity or constraints against performing these behaviors. Proposed
contextual influences at the individual level of analysis include skil
l level, self-efficacy, role definitions, interpersonal relationships,
and help-seeking behavior. Proposed contextual influences at the grou
p level of analysis are group norms, interdependence, and goals. Propo
sed contextual influences at the organizational level of analysis incl
ude organizational structure, culture, company policies, and reward sy
stems. Lastly, proposed contextual influences at the interorganization
al level of analysis include the isomorphic forces that result in orga
nizations becoming more similar to each other over time. Implications
of this analysis for future theorizing and research are discussed.