While extensive research has investigated the consequences of humble leadership, its formation remains understudied. Integrating power dependence theory and regulatory focus theory, we propose a model in which supervisor outcome dependence serves as a mediator and supervisor prevention focus works as a moderator in the relationship between supervisor future orientation and subordinates’ perceptions of humble leadership. Our results from a multiwave, multisource field study indicate that supervisor future orientation positively influences humble leadership perceptions through supervisor outcome dependence. Moreover, this indirect effect is stronger among supervisors with high prevention focus. This study concludes by discussing the theoretical and practical implications for leadership development.
Xu et al. (Sat,) studied this question.