Chapter 13, Problem 1LO

Summary Introduction

To contrast: The concept of leadership and power.

Explanation of Solution

Contrasting Leadership and power:

Consider there are two persons. The ability of Person A to influence the behavior of Person B according to the wishes of Person A is known as power. Person A can have power over Person B only if the person has some control over something desired by Person B.

Leadership and power have some relationship where the leader uses the power vested in them to attain the goals of a group. Power does not require any goal compatibility. But leadership requires some congruency between the leader and the people the leader is leading to achieve a specific goal. Leadership focusses on the downward influences of the followers. Power considers all the factors. Leadership research will often emphasize on the style. Power focuses on the tactics to gain compliance. Leadership focusses on only the leader's influence. Power focusses on the fact individuals and groups can use the power to control other groups and individuals.