lecture 8 influence and power

Question 1

definition of influence

Answer 1

Influence is a softer form of power and is often exerted through leadership, communication and interpersonal skills

Question 2

how can power be used in a group setting?

Answer 2

• Build trust and relationship  Enhance cohesiveness  enhance connectedness  let people feel like they are valued  even distribution of power among the group  increased engagement

To facilitate effective collaboration, decision- making, and the achievement of group goals. Can leverage power to foster a supportive environment that promotes participation, ensures every voice is heard, and actively addresses imbalances that could marginalize certain members.

Question 3

types of power and their difference (Toseland & Rivas, 2022)

Answer 3

• Attributed power
  o Perception among members of the leader’s ability to lead. It is often based on factors like position, status, or reputation.
  o Example: In a group project, a student who comes from a prestigious university or has a strong academic record may be perceived as having more power, even if their contributions to the group are limited
• Actual power
  o Refers to the worker’s resources for changing conditions inside and outside the group, dependent on the sources of a worker’s influence.
  o Example: In the same group project, a student who has strong organizational skills, excellent communication abilities, and a willingness to take on leadership roles may have more actual power, despite their perceived status.

Question 4

possible consequence if power is not brought up in a group setting

Answer 4

o Silent power struggle
 Chaos; Potential conflict
 Build up of resentment
 Poor engagement

Question 5

Why is there a need to differentiate the types of power?

Answer 5

• Real power and attributed power can be from a different person
• The person with attributed power can be useless and not have real power
• Goal: Alignment between attributed power and actual power
• When there is misalignment between attributed power and actual power, members might become disengaged as there is a mismatch of expectations

Question 6

How may power be misused?

Answer 6

• To dominate, manipulate, or control group members rather than fostering collaboration and inclusion.
• Misuse may appear in the form of coercion, preferential treatment, or silencing certain members, which creates imbalances that isolate individuals and weaken group unity.

Question 7

bases of power

Answer 7

• Legitimate
• Reward
• Expert
• Referent
• Coercive: threats; negative consequences e.g. school discipline; prison
• Informational: ability to provide crucial information that can influence decision making
• Connection: Networks and resources

Question 8

How can we manage power in groups to ensure that no one feels powerless/oppressed

Answer 8

• Recognise the power struggle/dynamics (before the explosion of this power struggle occurs)
  o Distinguish between being helpful and trying to exert control instead
• If the power dynamics is helpful, leverage on it
• If the power dynamics is unhealthy, need to manage it