Temporal dynamics in time pressure appraisal—testing the effects of a general time pressure appraisal tendency

Introduction We examine the effect of general challenge or hindrance appraisal tendencies and variability therein on the relationship between weekly time pressure with work engagement and irritation. According to appraisal theory, we suggest that general challenge or hindrance appraisals and the time dynamic of the appraisal (stability vs. variability) affect the stress response to weekly time pressure. Method In a multilevel analysis of a 5-week weekly diary study ( N = 277) we calculated the moderation effect of the mean and standard deviation of challenge and hindrance appraisal on the weekly relationship between time pressure with work engagement and strain. Results General hindrance appraisal moderated the effect of time pressure on vigor and absorption. The relationship was positive (/non-significant) if hindrance appraisal was low (/high) for absorption. We only found significant three-way interactions for hindrance appraisal with vigor, dedication, and cognitive irritation as outcomes. A low variability of general high hindrance appraisal reduced the moderation effect of general hindrance appraisal on the relationship between time pressure and work engagement/strain. Discussion We conclude that there is an adaptation effect which can be eliminated by a high variability of hindrance appraisal.