The Effect of Attachment Diversity on Team Performance and the Moderating Role of Perceived Organizational Support

Abstract

Attachment personality theory provides an interpersonal and relational perspective of human functioning. The current research examines the role of attachment diversity within the theoretical framework of the categorization‐elaboration model (CEM). We hypothesized that teams comprised of diverse attachment orientations would be beneficial to team performance. Specifically, diverse anxiety teams may have members who would be more vigilant to team threats, whereas diverse avoidance teams could comprise individuals who may be more goal‐oriented. Also, we examined whether perceived organizational support (POS) moderates the association between attachment diversity and team performance. The study was conducted at a large private communications company. Data were obtained for 44 sales teams (N = 404). Supplementing this data, the company’s administrative systems provided team performance ratings derived from team achievements. Findings indicated that the relationship between anxiety diversity and performance were stronger under lower POS levels than under higher POS levels. Interpersonal avoidance strategies seem to be less productive in avoidance diversity teams under lower levels of POS. However, higher POS levels buffered the negative impact of avoidance diversity on team performance.