"A Dynamic Process of Relational Identity Evaluation, Formation, and Adaptation"

Abstract

By integrating role-related behaviors with relational identity, drawing from role theory and identity theory, we aim to explain how additional relational identities can develop between a superior and a subordinate in addition to the pre-existing leader-follower relational identity. We differentiate between relational identities derived from ¡§assigned roles¡¨ (e.g., parent-child) and those from roles based on ¡§subjective perceptions¡¨ (e.g., friend-friend). We also conceptualize dominant relational identity, referring it as the most significant relational identity perceived by an individual among all relational identities with a particular entity. We argue that subordinates can be categorized into three different types in terms of how they would deal with multiple relational identities with their superior. We present a conceptual model based on the subordinate's evaluation of one's ability to adapt and ability to manage these multiple relational identities through different responsive behaviors of role elimination, role transition, and role integration.