Investigation of the key mechanism in status attainment process: Emotions and interpersonal helping as work capability-signaling indicators

The present paper seeks to identify an integrative model of status attainment mechanisms. Drawing on mood-as-input theory and conservation of resources theory, a theoretical model is developed regarding (1) the effects of positive emotions, negative emotions, interpersonal helping and (2) work capability as the primary pathway that fosters status achievement processes. Using a questionnaire study with 250 participants and an analysis of Structural Equation Modeling, the statistical results provided supportive empirical evidence for the hypotheses, especially the indirect effects of work capabilities. Additionally, frequent expressions of positive emotions and prosocial behaviors provoke high status gain, while frequent displays of negative emotions in fact penalize one's status. The conclusions, implications and limitations of the current research based on the findings are discussed further.