How Psychological Distances from Power Develop through Power Distance Values
How Psychological Distances from Power Develop through Power Distance Values

Summary/Abstract: Objective: The concept of power distance refers to a psychological distance in Mulder's model (1977) which accounts for power mobilities and to a value to researchers interested in the various forms of intercultural management (Hofstede, 2001). In this study, we explore the relationship between these two psychological constructs. Method: 176 wage-earners are informed of a scenario in which they occupy an intermediate position between a line manager and a base composed of two fictitious subordinate persons. Power distance values and perceptual distances between the subject and the other actors of the scenario are then measured. Results: Results show that the stronger the power values expressed by subjects, the closer to their line manager these perceptually get, while distancing themselves from the base of the organization. Discussion: These results make it possible to establish links between the theoretical domains related to psychological distances and those dealing with power values. They also provide a glimpse of power dynamics in organizations as the corollary of individuals’ approach or avoidance attitudes (Keltner, Gruenfelf & Anderson, 2003).

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