Abstract: Although power fluctuation is prevalent in organization settings, our understanding of it rather limited. Previous studies have explored power fluctuation from diverse theoretical perspectives. Through a review of relevant literature, it is found that power fluctuation may have dual effects: it can induce both beneficial and detrimental consequences. However, the mechanisms underlying why and how power fluctuation leads to differential outcomes remain unclear. Therefore, the purpose of this review is to propose an integrated framework to explain the double-edged sword effect of power fluctuation. This contributes to broadening the scope of power research and offering a new perspective for optimizing organizational management and job design.
By conceptualizing power fluctuation as a stressor, this review argues that the cognitive appraisal theory of stress can provide a robust explanation for its double-edged sword effect and underlying mechanisms. Therefore, building on the cognitive appraisal theory of stress and incorporating theoretical perspectives from related research, we propose that the impact of power fluctuation—whether positive or negative—depends primarily on individuals' cognitive appraisals and coping strategies. Specifically, when experiencing power fluctuation, individuals engage in cognitive appraisal to judge the stressor and their ability to cope. Integrating the lens of approach-inhibition-avoidance theory to elucidate the negative emotions induced by power fluctuation, we contend that if individuals perceive power fluctuation as an insurmountable obstacle, they may experience negative emotions and adopt a threat appraisal. Consequently, they may prioritize emotion-focused coping strategies to manage these negative emotions. However, if individuals view power fluctuation as a chance for self-improvement and believe in their ability to overcome it, they may adopt a challenge appraisal. In this case, they are more inclined to employ problem-focused coping strategies to effectively leverage potential opportunities.
Furthermore, individuals' diverse appraisals and coping strategies result in differential outcomes. By integrating insights from boundary theory and social distance theory, this study seeks to understand the specific manifestations of stress responses to power fluctuation. Specifically, when emotion-focused coping strategies hinder individuals from fulfilling the demands and responsibilities of multiple power roles, they are likely to experience adverse outcomes, such as reduced well-being and increased burnout. In contrast, when problem-focused coping strategies enable individuals to adapt effectively to the shifting boundaries of social interactions, positive outcomes, such as enhanced team performance and increased cooperation, may result. Building on these theoretical foundations, the current study posits that cognitive appraisal and coping serve as key psychological mechanisms underlying the double-edged sword effect of power fluctuation. In addition, the ultimate goal of power fluctuation research is to foster the healthy growth and sustainable development of both individuals and organizations. From an applied perspective, the Janus-faced nature of power fluctuation necessitates strategies to maximize its benefits while minimizing its drawbacks. Therefore, by considering key moderating factors, the integrated framework proposes that the appraisal and coping processes depend on individuals' coping potential and externally available resources, ultimately determining whether power fluctuation manifests as adaptive or adverse consequences.
In conclusion, this integrative framework extends the existing literature in two key ways. First, it delineates the psychological processes (i.e., appraisal and coping) as critical mediators linking power fluctuation to substantive outcomes. Second, it provides multidimensional mitigation mechanisms for both individuals and organizations to alleviate the negative impacts of power fluctuation. Nevertheless, as an emerging research field, power fluctuation still has many unresolved questions. In view of this, this review provides a strategic agenda highlighting directions for future research. In the future, it is necessary to further clarify the conceptualization and measurement of power fluctuation, deepen the understanding of its mechanisms, explore the heterogeneity among different trajectories of fluctuation, and combine power fluctuation research with broader fields such as decision-making, so as to advance both theoretical development and practical applications of power fluctuation.

Key words: sense of power, power fluctuation, intra-individual variability, the cognitive appraisal theory of stress