A fluctuating sense of power is associated with reduced well-being

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 empirically test 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 are weaker for individuals in routine task environments compared to individuals in non-routine task environments. Finally, we develop and validate methodological tools that 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.