Changes in power almost invariably lead to changes in behavior. This research investigates the effects of power increases and power decreases for individuals who are in strong or weak positions. An egocentric hypothesis - that increases in power will lead to greater behavioral changes than decreases in power - contrasts with hypotheses that focus on outcome dependence, previous exposure to power, and learning. Four experiments track individuals' actions when they move from ultimatum to dictatorship games, from dictatorship to ultimatum games, or when they have the same power position repeatedly. The data provide consistent support for egocentrism and no support for the other hypotheses. The discussion explores the disconnect between increases and decreases in power.

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