Positive and negative emotional tone convergence: An empirical examination of associations with leader and follower LMX

Abstract

Despite a growing importance and understanding of emotions and affective processes in leadership, the specific role of positive and negative emotional tone in leader follower relationships, as perceived by both parties to the relationship, is less well understood. We draw upon the Emotions in Relationships Model (ERM) in adult relationship sciences to posit that convergence in positive and negative emotional tone in leader-follower relationships affects reciprocity based LMX as reported by both parties: leaders and followers. Our assertions, based on findings for matched dyadic reports of all constructs, are largely supported for convergence in positive emotional tone but not supported for convergence in negative emotional tone in LMX relationships. In addition, nuanced findings for leader rated LMX as well as negative emotional tone convergence emerged. Implications for future theory and research in LMX and emotions are discussed.