Publication Type

Journal Article

Version

submittedVersion

Publication Date

1-2021

Abstract

Social power research has been limited by theoretical and methodological traditions that prioritize static comparisons of high and low-power states. This is a crucial limitation given power’s inherently dynamic nature. Accordingly, Anicich and Hirsh (2017a) recently developed a theoretical framework related to the consequences of vertical code-switching – i.e., the act of alternating between behavioral patterns directed toward higher-power and lower-power interaction partners – known as the approach-inhibition-avoidance (AIA) theory of power. Across five main studies and two supplemental studies, we present the first empirical test of this theory using a mix of survey, experimental, and experience-sampling methods. We demonstrate that power fluctuation – i.e., the extent to which one subjectively perceives oneself as alternating between psychological states of high and low power (or vice versa) across situations – is associated with two indicators of reduced well-being at work – psychological distress and somatic symptoms. We further show that these effects are mediated by role tensions (role conflict and role overload), and is weaker for individuals in routine task environments compared to individuals in non-routine task environments. Finally, we develop and validate methodological tools that future researchers can use to extend our findings including the Power Fluctuation Scale (PFS, Study 1), laboratory and online experimental paradigms (Studies 2 and 3), and a simple measure to assess power fluctuation in everyday life (i.e., SD of reports of momentary power, Study 4). Overall, we provide the first set of studies highlighting the negative emotional and physiological consequences of experiencing a fluctuating sense of power.

Keywords

social power, power fluctuation, vertical code-switching, well-being

Discipline

Civic and Community Engagement | Mental and Social Health | Social Psychology

Research Areas

Organisational Behaviour and Human Resources

Publication

Journal of Experimental Social Psychology

Volume

92

ISSN

0022-1031

Identifier

10.1016/j.jesp.2020.104057

Publisher

Elsevier

Copyright Owner and License

Authors

Additional URL

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jesp.2020.104057

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