Power as a structural phenomenon.
In an effort to inform empowerment theory and research, this paper provides a structural conception of power. First, we examine the essential features present in three dominant conceptions of power in community psychology: social power, psychopolitical power, and relational power. Next, commonalities in the key features of power identified by these conceptions are explored and pared down to yield a more parsimonious conception of power that is grounded only in the structural pattern of relationships through which resources are exchanged. Drawing on social exchange theory, we offer a method for measuring this streamlined, structural conception of power that allows for its more precise examination. Finally, we discuss the implications of a structural conception and measurement of power for targeting and facilitating empowering processes and evaluating empowered outcomes.
Neal
Jennifer Watling
JW
Department of Psychology, Michigan State University, 127A Psychology Building, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA. jneal@msu.edu
Neal
Zachary P
ZP
D003159:Community-Institutional Relations; D006801:Humans; D007398:Interpersonal Relations; D008960:Models, Psychological; D011057:Politics; D011209:Power, Psychological; D011593:Psychology, Social; D012919:Social Behavior; D012922:Social Change