Understanding the positive and negative effects of emotional expressions in organizations: : EASI does it

• Autores: Gerben A van Kleef
• Localización: Human Relations, ISSN-e 1741-282X, Vol. 67, Nº. 9, 2014, págs. 1145-1164
• Idioma: inglés
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• Resumen

  • Emotions have a pervasive impact on organizational behavior. They do not just influence people�s own actions; when expressed, emotions may also exert influence on other organization members who perceive the expressions. Sometimes emotional expressions have �symmetrical� effects, in that positive expressions yield advantageous outcomes for the expresser, while negative expressions produce disadvantageous outcomes. In other cases effects are �asymmetrical�, such that negative emotional expressions generate beneficial outcomes for the expresser, while positive expressions produce detrimental outcomes. Drawing on Emotions as Social Information (EASI) theory, I develop a theoretical analysis of when and how expressions of anger and happiness generate symmetrical versus asymmetrical effects. I support my analysis with a review of empirical research on the interpersonal effects of anger and happiness in negotiations and leadership. This review permits two general conclusions: (1) symmetrical effects of anger and happiness are mediated by affective reactions of perceivers, whereas asymmetrical effects are mediated by inferential processes in perceivers; (2) the relative strength of affective reactions versus inferential processes (and thereby the likelihood of symmetrical versus asymmetrical effects) depends on the perceiver�s information processing motivation and ability and on the perceived appropriateness of the emotional display. I discuss theoretical implications and future directions.