UNDERSTANDING THE EFFECTS OF POWER DISTANCE TRUST ON CONSUMER ATTITUDES WHEN DEGRADED IN LOYALTY PROGRAMS: THE DYNAMICS OF MONEY AND MENTAL LOSSES

Abstract

The dynamics of monetary and mental losses and the role of power distance belief effects in influencing consumer attitudes when experiencing demotion in loyalty programs have become increasingly relevant research subjects in the context of marketing and consumer psychology. This research aims to investigate how monetary and mental losses influence consumers' attitudes toward status changes in loyalty programs, as well as the extent to which power distance belief effects play a role in this process. Through in-depth literature analysis and synthesis of relevant concepts, this research highlights that monetary losses, such as the loss of potential financial gains and the value of investments that have been made, can cause consumers to feel disappointed and frustrated. Meanwhile, mental losses, such as emotional stress and feelings of loss of identity or self-esteem, can disrupt consumers' mental and emotional well-being. Psychological adaptation mechanisms, such as cognitive justification and seeking social support, become important strategies in overcoming these negative impacts. Additionally, the effect of power distance beliefs plays an important role in influencing consumers' responses to changes in status, with people who have high power distance beliefs tending to be more accepting of such changes. A deeper understanding of these dynamics has important implications for marketing practitioners in developing more effective strategies for managing status changes in loyalty programs and maintaining consumer loyalty.