Power Effects on Instrumental Learning: Evidence From the Brain and Behavior

We investigated whether high power facilitates instrumental learning relative to low power—an effect that would support power effects on goal-pursuit and decisionmaking. Because power is known to increase instrumentality in action, we expected that high power would enhance instrumental learning involving both approach and avoidance responses, relative to low power. Studies 1 and 2 revealed that manipulated power modulated instrumental learning, such that relative to low power, high power facilitated the learning of approach and avoidance responses through reinforcement. Furthermore, Study 2 revealed stronger neural processing of valid versus invalid feedback, indexed by the feedback-related negativity (FRN) component of the eventrelated potential (ERP), among high-power participants, but not low-power or control participants. These results suggest higher power engaged more strategic processing of goal-relevant feedback—a finding that illuminates the links between power, goal pursuit, and social behavior.