‘My research examines how power dynamics and cognitive schemas shape interpersonal relationships, with a particular focus on leader-follower interactions. Together with my supervisors Deanne den Hartog and Annebel de Hoogh, I study how people behaviourally adapt to one another through what we call interpersonal entrainment: the subtle process by which behaviours align during interaction. Especially in leader-follower relationships, this adaptation process can be inherently sensitive to our underlying cognitive schemas and power dynamics.

For one of our projects, we investigate how people adjust their speaking rates to each other over time and which factors influence this adjustment. Greater interpersonal adaptation (or entrainment) is associated with higher levels of trust and collaboration. In organisational contexts, trust and collaboration are in turn important as they support more effective communication, better decision-making, and a greater sense of psychological safety for both leaders and followers.

My background is in social cognitive psychology, and generally I enjoy Hegelian thought and understanding why we act the way we do. As such, I consider myself very lucky to be able to combine personal interest with work. With my research, I hope to contribute to a better understanding of how leader-follower relationships in the organisational setting can be healthier and more collaborative.’