How Anger Expression Strengthens and Harms Follower Trust – A Dual Process Model

Abstract

<p>We propose a dual pathway model involving two distinct and competing mediation mechanisms that explain the effect of leader’s anger expression on the targeted subordinate’s trust in the leader. We theorize that while leader’s anger expression decreases follower trust via increased follower unpleasantness, it enhances trust through increased guilt. While the former effect is channeled through the affective reactions pathway, the latter is channeled through the inferential processing route. Further, we identify two social-relational factors (two perceived causes of anger expression) that moderate the mediation effects – altruistic concern and responsibility of self. Study 1 involving 186 undergraduate students provided support for an overall negative effect of leader’s anger expression on subordinate’s trust. Study 2 with a sample of 805 MTurk workers supported the competing mediation processes as well as the moderation effects.<br></p>