Management and Organizational Studies Publications

Document Type

Book Chapter

Publication Date

12-5-2019

First Page

172

URL with Digital Object Identifier

https://doi.org/10.4337/9781788117739.00021

Last Page

184

Abstract

This chapter examines the mirror image of the identity association principle: dissociation. While the association principle posits that stimuli associated with a positively regarded identity receive more positive evaluations, the dissociation principle suggests that stimuli associated with negatively regarded identities will receive negative evaluations and be abandoned. The authors focus on the nature of dissociative reference groups or groups that the consumer is motivated to avoid association with, and present a framework outlining how dissociative influence can impact consumer behavior. They review the literature on dissociative influence and note that although dissociative reference groups often spur avoidance behaviors, they can sometimes induce approach behaviors. They then turn to a discussion of how dissociative associations can lead to polarizing reactions in real-world domains, such as politics. Finally, they draw on their theorizing to outline some suggested directions for future research in this regard.

Notes

This is a draft chapter/article. The final version is available in Handbook of Research on Identity Theory in Marketing edited by M. Forehand and A. Reed, published in 2019, Edward Elgar Publishing Ltd https://doi.org/10.4337/9781788117739.00021

The material cannot be used for any other purpose without further permission of the publisher, and is for private use only.

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