It’s About: How Power Can Blind One to the Truth
Power, a fundamental force in social dynamics, shapes our freedoms, resources, and ability to influence others. Yet, the fear of loss of power lurks beneath the surface, driving individuals towards self-enhancement to safeguard their self-esteem. But does the ebb of power truly lead to a dip in self-esteem? This question lies at the heart of this paper in the special issue.
Methodically, the authors embarked on a laboratory experiment, engaging college students from East China as subjects. Dividing them into groups for tests of power decline and self-defense, the interplay between power dynamics and self-esteem was mapped out. Semi-structured interviews were used to paint a nuanced picture.
Amidst a fall from power, the prideful are prone to self-deception, while humility is a protective factor against illusions of grandeur.
Power decline alone did not trigger a subsequent decline in self-esteem. Interestingly, those with constant power experienced a notable rise in self-esteem. Self-defense emerged as a key player, moderating the relationship between power decline and self-esteem. For individuals with high self-defense mechanisms, constant power bolstered self-esteem, shielding them from the effects of power decline. However, individuals with lower self-defense mechanisms exhibited a weakened relationship between constant power and self-esteem, indicating a greater susceptibility to power fluctuations.
Mapping how power interacts with self-esteem, paves the way for a deeper comprehension of human behavior and offers practical tools to navigate its complexities
The theoretical implications include shining a light on the overlooked research of the psychology of power loss and its impact on self-esteem and the psychological ramifications. The methodological approach opens new avenues for experimental research, and by focusing on the core of individual personality, namely self-defense mechanisms, the human responses to the effects of power loss becomes clearer.
This study offers practical insights for real-world scenarios. From organizational strategies to individual self-management, the findings offer actionable steps to navigate the complexities of power dynamics and self-esteem.
Note: This series highlights articles from the recently published special issue of Frontiers in Psychology, “Power, Discrimination, and Privilege in Individuals and Institutions,” edited by Sonya Faber, Monnica T. Williams, Matthew D. Skinta, and Bia Labate.
Huang, Caiyun. (2022). Power decline and the change of self-esteem: The moderating effect of self-defense. Frontiers in Psychology 13. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2022.1052208
Art by Fernanda Cervantes
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