Title
Leader Positivity and Follower Creativity: An Experimental Analysis
Document Type
Article
Department or Administrative Unit
Management
Publication Date
8-2012
Abstract
Using an experimental research design, 191 working adults were randomly assigned to two experimental conditions in order to test a theoretical model linking leader and follower positive psychological capital (PsyCap). Multiple methods were used to gather information from the participants. We found when leader PsyCap was manipulated experimentally, it was positively related to follower PsyCap. Subsequently, follower PsyCap was significantly related to employee's originality of ideas; one important component of creativity in the workplace. We discuss the theoretical contributions of linking leader and follower PsyCap in what emerges as a directional contagion effect, and the mediating role of follower PsyCap in enhancing follower creative task performance. Further, employee selection and development as well as leadership development practical implications are discussed. We conclude with a discussion of limitations and future research directions.
Recommended Citation
Avey, J.B., Richmond, F.L., & Nixon, D.R. (2012). Leader positivity and follower creativity: An experimental analysis. The Journal of Creative Behavior 46(2), 99-118. DOI: 10.1002/jocb.8
Journal
The Journal of Creative Behavior
Rights
© 2012 by the Creative Education Foundation , Inc.
Comments
This article was originally published in The Journal of Creative Behavior. The full-text article from the publisher can be found here.
Due to copyright restrictions, this article is not available for free download through ScholarWorks @ CWU.