Daily proactive problem-solving and next day stress appraisals: the moderating role of behavioral activation

ABSTRACT

Background and objectives: Drawing upon transactional theory, this study examined the interactive effects of daily problem-prevention behaviors and an aspect of personality relevant to stress responses (i.e., behavioral activation) on next-day stress appraisals of problem-solving demands.

Design and methods: Data were collected from 188 employees across a range of industries using an initial survey to collect information on personality, followed by twice-daily surveys over five consecutive work days to measure daily problem-prevention, stress appraisals and problem-solving demands.

Results: Multilevel analyses revealed that behavioral activation system (BAS) affected stress appraisals in unique ways. As hypothesized, BAS had a positive direct effect on challenge appraisal. It also moderated the effects of problem-prevention on next-day hindrance appraisals, such that the relationship was more strongly positive for individuals with low levels of BAS.

Conclusions: The results demonstrate the BAS has implications not just for promoting positive challenge appraisals, but also for alleviating detrimental effects on stress appraisal. Overall, the findings emphasize the value of exploring the interactive effects of day- and person-level factors on stress appraisals, thereby offering a platform for future research.