Changes their view to match the boss
Their position flips the day the CEO speaks, and they argue the new line as if it had always been theirs.
Rule out first
The boss had information they didn't. A legitimate decision they're now loyally carrying out. A hierarchical culture.
What could explain it
Socialised mind: They don't yet have a view separate from the people who matter to them; asked privately, the answer is still the boss's.
Conformity: They follow the room; alone, they say something different and are a bit embarrassed about it.
Authority bias: Rank itself settles it for them: 'if she thinks so, there's probably a reason'.
Subjugation schema: They fear what disagreement would cost and swallow their view; there's resentment underneath.
Self-monitoring: They adjust smoothly to whoever has power, know exactly what they think, and will tell you privately.
A next move
Ask privately what they think, with nothing at stake. A different view means conformity, fear or strategy; the same view means a socialised mind or deference to rank.
If it’s you
Do I hold this view, or does someone I need to please hold it?