The Power of Projection for Powerless and Powerful People

Abstract

Previous research suggests competing hypotheses regarding the effect of power on social projection. The current research proposes that this effect depends on the characteristics to be projected, namely warmth and competence. In four studies, participants first rated themselves on a list of traits/preferences, they then performed a power manipulation task, and, finally, they rated a target person on the same list. Studies 1 and 2 found that high-power participants projected less than low-power participants on characteristics related to warmth. Studies 3 and 4 revealed an interaction between power and dimensions of judgment such that low-power participants projected less than high-power participants on competence whereas the reverse was found on warmth. The underlying cognitive and motivational mechanisms are discussed. Previous research suggests competing hypotheses regarding the effect of power on social projection. The current research proposes that this effect depends on the characteristics to be projected, namely warmth and competence. In four studies, participants first rated themselves on a list of traits/preferences, they then performed a power manipulation task, and, finally, they rated a target person on the same list. Studies 1 and 2 found that high-power participants projected less than low-power participants on characteristics related to warmth. Studies 3 and 4 revealed an interaction between power and dimensions of judgment such that low-power participants projected less than high-power participants on competence whereas the reverse was found on warmth. The underlying cognitive and motivational mechanisms are discussed.