PSYCH 338 Chapter Notes - Chapter 12: Machiavellianism, Centrality, Trait Theory
7 Mar 2016
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Power: the capacity to influence others who are in a state of dependence. Power is not always perceived or exercised it is the capacity to influence the behavior of others. The fact that the target of power is dependent on the power holder dos not imply that a poor relationship exists between the two. Power can flow in any direction in an organization often members at higher organizational levels have more power than those at lower levels. Power is a broad concept that applies to both individuals and groups. French and raven explained, that power can be found in the position that you occupy in the organization or the resources that you are able to command. The first base of power- legitimate power- is dependent on one"s position or job. The other bases (reward, coercive, referent, and expert power) involve the control of important resources. Legitimate power: power derived from a person"s position or job in an organization.
