ABSTRACT
In Study 1, managers reported more distress than nonmanagers while working overseas. Study 2 provides a glimpse into the time-course of the managers’ and nonmanagers’ adjustment from predeployment to duringdeployment and while on vacation. Managers and nonmanagers were more anxious and depressed with lower self-affirmation while working overseas compared with when vacationing or before deployment. However, the managers suffered a larger increase in anxiety and decrease in self-affirmation from pre-to postdeployment than nonmanagers. When they accepted the assignment but before taking positions overseas, the managers had started with higher self-affirmation and less anxiety. This reaction suggests that managers had higher expectations for their overseas experiences and were more excited about the opportunities. However, they became more anxious and self-doubting than their subordinates while working overseas. This is probably due to their multiple responsibilities and heavier work overload. Managers work harder and have more issues to worry about and resolve than their subordinates. The harsh realities on the ground may lead to a stronger sense of disappointment among the managers.
