The Dual Fit Perspective: Examining the Simultaneous Effects of Intrapersonal and Interpersonal Regulatory Fit on Motivation

Abstract

Drawing from regulatory focus and regulatory fit theories, this paper introduces a framework for understanding the simultaneous occurrence of intrapersonal and interpersonal regulatory fit. The Dual Fit Perspective (DFP) proposes that different combinations of intrapersonal and interpersonal regulatory fit (i.e., Dual Fit) have varying influences on employee motivation. According to the DFP, some combinations of regulatory fit (misfit) are more desirable than others. The theory presented in this paper provides a more nuanced view of regulatory fit and suggests that misfit is not as detrimental to motivation as previously portrayed.