Chapter 7 Influence and Power - Learning Objectives

Learning Objectives: Recall and apply the three responses to social influence and summarize potential consequences for military leaders. Recall and apply the six bases of power in French and Raven’s taxonomy of social power to leadership situations.

Changing behavior or decisions to match a group

Conformity

Group pressure can cause individuals to suppress correct judgement or concerns to avoid conflict or gain acceptance.

Military consequence for conformity

Changing behavior in response to a direct request from another person

Compliance

Leaders can influence behavior through requests, relationships, and reciprocity.

Military consequence for compliance

Compliance with a request or order from someone in a position of authority

Obedience

Necessary for military effectiveness, but excessive obedience can cause followers to comply with poor or harmful decisions.

Military consequence for obedience

How many bases of power are there in the French and Raven’s taxonomy?

6

Influence based on the ability to provide something valued

Reward Power

Influence based on the ability to punish or remove something valued

Coercive Power

Influence based on recognized authority, rank, or position

Legitimate Power

Influence based on perceived knowledge or skill

Expert Power

Influence based on respect, identification, trust, or the strength of a relationship

Referent Power

Influence based on the persuasive value of information itself

Informational Power