A regulatory focus theory perspective on the dynamics between action and power

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Organizational Behavior

Background:

• Prior research suggests a positive cycle where power motivates action, and action increases power.
• Regulatory Focus Theory distinguishes between promotion and prevention orientations in motivation and behavior.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a within-person theory of the relationship between action and power, differentiating between promotion- and prevention-oriented actions.
• To investigate how trait promotion and prevention focus moderate the action-power relationship.
• To examine the reciprocal relationship between the experience of power and subsequent actions.

Main Methods:

• Two studies were conducted applying regulatory focus theory.
• Employee voice behaviors (promotive and prohibitive) and their relationship with the experience of power were analyzed.
• Trait promotion and prevention focus were assessed as moderators.

Main Results:

• Promotive voice behaviors led to increased feelings of power, particularly for those with a trait promotion focus.
• Prohibitive voice behaviors were associated with decreased feelings of power for individuals with a trait prevention focus.
• Experienced power subsequently motivated promotive voice behaviors, but not prohibitive voice behaviors.

Conclusions:

• The action-power cycle is not universally positive; distinct promotion and prevention pathways exist.
• Findings challenge the assumption of a simple positive reinforcement loop between action and power.
• Theoretical and practical implications for understanding employee motivation and behavior are discussed.