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The Advantages of Being Disadvantaged

Author

Listed:
  • Alexandre Bohas

    (ESSCA - School of Management)

  • Gilles Grolleau

    (ESSCA - School of Management)

  • Naoufel Mzoughi

    (ECODEVELOPPEMENT - Ecodéveloppement - INRAE - Institut National de Recherche pour l’Agriculture, l’Alimentation et l’Environnement)

Abstract

While many contributions examine how individuals and various entities (e.g.,organizations, countries) manage to obtain a (competitive) advantage, there is a knowledge gap on how to make the best of disadvantages. Using notably the theories of self-enhancement and psychological reactance, the existing literature has explained the mechanisms that can motivate and support an entity to get out from a disadvantageous position. We go further by addressing the ‘how' issues. We conceptualize disadvantages and adopt a provocative stance by showing how they can be transformed into valuable opportunities. Specifically, we document how being disadvantaged may be a driver of compensatory behaviors, effectual thinking and innovation, and serves as an emotional bond and in-group marker. We also draw managerial and policy implications that offer a refreshing view on how to take advantage of disadvantages, such as changing the non-market context and promoting the disadvantage as a market differentiation factor. As a caveat, adopting this stance should not be interpreted as a catch-all solution that exonerates stakeholders from doing their part in providing support to disadvantaged entities

Suggested Citation

  • Alexandre Bohas & Gilles Grolleau & Naoufel Mzoughi, 2024. "The Advantages of Being Disadvantaged," Post-Print hal-04562320, HAL.
    • Handle: RePEc:hal:journl:hal-04562320
    Note: View the original document on HAL open archive server: https://hal.inrae.fr/hal-04562320
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