The influence of power dynamics and power distance on nudge effectiveness

Abstract

This dissertation investigated the influence of power dynamics and the cultural dimension of power distance on nudge effectiveness. This investigation was examined within an organizational context, particularly in a hiring scenario. The goal of this thesis was to find out if individuals in different power positions or in different power distance cultures are more susceptible to nudges. An online survey was conducted using a quantitative research design to test the hypotheses. The survey focused on testing nudge effectiveness in different hiring scenarios. Participants were randomly assigned to either a control or two nudge groups. They were presented with a hiring scenario in which they should make the decision by themselves or give a suggestion to their manager. A logistic regression was used to analyze the interaction between power dynamics, power distance, and nudge effectiveness. The results showed no significant influence of power dynamics and power distance on nudge effectiveness in the hiring scenario. These findings suggest that the effects of power dynamics and power distance on nudge effectiveness may not exist or may be smaller than what this study had the power to detect. Moreover, these findings indicate that nudge effectiveness may be consistent across the levels of the two variables, thus suggesting that nudges can be implemented broadly across different power levels and power distances. Further research should include other variables, such as personal traits and organizational factors, and a larger sample to further explore the relationships to increase the efficient use of nudges in an organizational setting.

Date of Award	16 Oct 2024
Original language	English
Awarding Institution	Universidade Católica Portuguesa
Supervisor	Cristina Soares Pacheco Mendonça (Supervisor)