NONCONSCIOUS EFFECTS OF POWER ON BASIC APPROACH AND AVOIDANCE TENDENCIES

Area of Science:

• Social Psychology
• Behavioral Neuroscience

Background:

• The approach/inhibition theory posits power activates the approach system and lack of power activates the avoidance system.
• Prior research primarily examined if power increases action, particularly approach-related actions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the direct, unintentional relationship between power and both approach and avoidance tendencies.
• To extend existing research by differentiating the effects of power on approach versus avoidance behaviors.

Main Methods:

• Three experiments were conducted using power priming techniques.
• Behavioral Activation System (BAS) and Behavioral Inhibition System (BIS) strengths were assessed.
• Simple and complex approach and avoidance behaviors were measured.

Main Results:

• Priming high power increased relative BAS strength compared to low power, without affecting BIS.
• High-power priming facilitated both simple and complex approach behaviors.
• No significant effects of power priming were observed on avoidance behaviors.

Conclusions:

• Power is directly and unintentionally linked to enhanced approach tendencies.
• These effects occur independently of general positive/negative priming or affect.
• Findings support the approach/inhibition theory by demonstrating power's specific association with approach systems.