The Emotional Dynamics Of Failure Sharing Under Fixed And Growth Mindsets

Abstract

Failure sharing represents potential for error management cultures and organizational learning but may be resisted by the individuals involved. Previous research suggests that one qualifying factor is the perceived benefits and costs for the individuals doing the sharing. In the current paper, based on theories of self-conscious emotions, we propose that there is also emotional impact on the failure sharing process, where the experience of shame and guilt impacts both failure-sharing tendencies and perceptions of the benefits and costs associated with failure sharing. In addition, based on mindset theory, we propose that fixed organizational and individual mindsets contribute to arousing shame and guilt in a failure situation. Two correlational online studies largely supported the hypotheses. The emotional effects on failure sharing were also found to be partly mediated by the benefit/cost perceptions. These findings contribute to the literature on error management, failure sharing, and organizational mindsets.