Psychological Crossover: Definitions, Explanations, and New Directions

Abstract

This chapter describes the interpersonal transfer process of stress, emotions, and experiences, known as crossover. It defines and differentiates between spillover and crossover and discusses the three main theoretical explanations of the crossover process. It also explains how the crossover process includes the transfer of both positive and negative emotions and experiences, and how recent work has demonstrated the transmission of resources (e.g., self-esteem and social support), between spouses. The chapter also discusses the impact of culture and gender on the crossover process. Finally, it reviews emerging research assessing how crossover operates between team members and how team leaders “affect” their team members via crossover (and vice versa).