Affective Events Theory (AET)

A theory relating to affective experiences at work, emphasizing the role of work events as proximal causes of affective reactions. According to Affective Events Theory (AET), events that occur within organizational contexts/workplace settings trigger affective responses in organizational members, which consequently influence their workplace attitudes, cognition and behaviour.

A theory that suggests that our experiences at work - whether they elicit positive emotions (uplifts) or negative emotions (hassles), affects our thoughts, behaviours, and work attitudes.

Reference:

Weiss, H. M., & Cropanzano, R. (1996). An affective events approach to job satisfaction. In Staw, B.M. & Cummings, L.L. (Eds.), Research in Organizational Behavior Volume 18: An Annual Series of Analytical Essays and Critical Reviews, pp. 1–74. Greenwich, CT: Elsevier Science/JAI Press.

Ashton-James, C. E., & Ashkanasy, N. M. (2008). Affective events theory: A strategic perspective. In Zerbe, W.J., Hārtel, C.E.J. & Ashkanasy, N.M. (Eds.), Research on Emotion in Organizations Volume 4: Emotions, Ethics, and Decision-Making, pp. 1-34. Bingley, UK: Emerald Group Publishing/JAI Press.