Referent Power

Definition

Referent power is a type of social influence where an individual's ability to influence others is based on the other person's desire to identify with or be associated with the individual. It arises from the target's admiration, respect, and/or likeability of the person wielding the power.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Referent power is often associated with charismatic leadership, where a leader's personal appeal and attractiveness inspires others to follow them.
2. Individuals with referent power are typically seen as role models, and others seek to emulate their behaviors and attitudes.
3. Referent power is particularly effective in situations where the target individual has a strong desire to be accepted or affiliated with the person wielding the power.
4. The strength of referent power can diminish if the individual's actions or behaviors are perceived as inconsistent with their image or if they lose the respect or admiration of their followers.
5. Developing referent power often requires the individual to demonstrate integrity, competence, and a genuine concern for the well-being of others.

Review Questions

• Explain how referent power differs from other types of power, such as legitimate power or expert power.
  • Referent power is distinct from other forms of power in that it is not based on the individual's formal position or authority (legitimate power) or their specialized knowledge and expertise (expert power). Instead, referent power arises from the target's personal admiration, respect, and desire to identify with the individual wielding the power. The influence of referent power is rooted in the target's emotional and psychological connection to the person, rather than their formal role or expertise.
• Describe the role of charisma in the development of referent power, and discuss how it can be both a strength and a potential weakness.
  • Charisma is often closely associated with referent power, as charismatic individuals possess a personal appeal and attractiveness that inspires others to follow them. Charisma can be a significant strength in building referent power, as it helps the individual to establish a strong emotional connection with their followers and become a respected role model. However, relying too heavily on charisma can also be a potential weakness, as the individual's referent power may diminish if their actions or behaviors are perceived as inconsistent with their charismatic image or if they lose the respect and admiration of their followers over time.
• Analyze the importance of integrity, competence, and concern for others in the development and maintenance of referent power, and explain how these factors contribute to the long-term effectiveness of this type of power.
  • Developing and maintaining referent power requires the individual to demonstrate integrity, competence, and a genuine concern for the well-being of others. Integrity helps to build trust and credibility, as followers are more likely to respect and emulate someone they perceive as honest and ethical. Competence, in the form of expertise, skills, and effective leadership, further reinforces the individual's status as a role model and source of inspiration. Finally, a genuine concern for others, manifested through empathy, compassion, and a commitment to supporting their followers, helps to deepen the emotional connection and loyalty that underpins referent power. By consistently exhibiting these qualities, the individual can cultivate a strong and enduring referent power that transcends the limitations of charisma or temporary popularity.

Related terms

Legitimate Power: Legitimate power is the authority a person holds by virtue of their position or role within an organization, which gives them the right to influence and make demands of others.

Expert Power: Expert power is the influence a person has due to their specialized knowledge, skills, or expertise in a particular area that others recognize and respect.

Reward Power: Reward power is the ability to provide positive outcomes or benefits to others, which motivates them to comply with the person's wishes.