The Follower's Role in Co-Creating Safety: An Attachment and Motivation Perspective

Most studies treat psychological safety as a leader-driven phenomenon, but this research proposes a dynamic co-creation model emphasizing followers' active roles. Drawing on Arthachinda & Charoensukmongkol's (2024) finding that spiritual leadership effectiveness varies by follower occupational self-efficacy, it investigates how follower characteristics—attachment styles (anxious, avoidant, secure) and core motivations (achievement vs. affiliation)—shape perceptions and responses to leadership behaviors. For example, participative leadership may be seen as inclusive by securely attached followers but indecisive by anxious ones. Using a multi-source, multi-wave survey design capturing leader and follower traits, behaviors, and perceptions, the study models the complex interplay between leader and follower in constructing psychological safety. This systems view moves beyond one-way causality and offers leaders insights into tailoring approaches based on follower differences.

References:

1. Effect of spiritual leadership on psychological safety climate and team innovation in consulting teams: the moderating role of occupational self-efficacy. Panisa Arthachinda, Peerayuth Charoensukmongkol (2024). International Journal of Productivity and Performance Management.