Question 1

Hocker and Wilmot contend that power is not owned by an individual but is a product of communication relationships.

Accepted Answer

According to Hocker and Wilmot, power is not owned by an individual but is a product of communication relationships. This means that power is not something that an individual possesses or controls, but rather emerges from the interactions and relationships between people. Therefore, power is not static but dynamic and constantly changing based on communication dynamics.

Question 2

Both/and power remains the model of choice for many women in Western culture.

Accepted Answer

Both/and power, which emphasizes collaboration and cooperation rather than competition and hierarchy, has been gaining popularity among women in Western culture as a model for leadership and decision-making.

Question 3

When Ken's parents died,his sister was named as the executor of their estate.She gave all of the good furniture to her kids and left only one old dresser for Ken's kids.Ken was furious with his sister because of this.Even though Ken felt "low power" in this situation,he decided to maintain his relationship with his sister and encouraged his kids not to bring up the issue with their cousins.Ken's decision is an example of which of the following moves Lerner suggests that people in low-power positions adopt?

Accepted Answer

Ken's decision to maintain his relationship with his sister and not confront her over the unequal distribution of furniture shows that he chose to stay emotionally connected to a significant other even during a difficult situation. This aligns with Lerner's suggestion to maintain connections with others even in low-power positions.

Question 4

According to the text,if you are not the "boss" at work,you do not really have any power.

Accepted Answer

The text states that although the "boss" may have more power and authority, there are still ways for non-boss employees to exercise power and influence at work.

Question 5

While preparing to teach an online course,Julie regularly seeks the assistance of Tony,the technology support person at her university.Julie understands that Tony has vast knowledge about the software and course management system she needs to use.Your book would describe the "power currency" Tony has in this scenario as which of the following?

Accepted Answer

Power currency refers to the sources of power available to individuals in organizations. In this scenario, Tony has power through his expertise in the technology and course management system that Julie needs to use. He has specialized knowledge that Julie needs to accomplish her tasks effectively, making his expertise a form of power currency.

Question 6

"I don't remember saying that" is an example of power denial.

Accepted Answer

Power denial is a form of manipulation where an individual denies having certain power or abilities in order to avoid responsibility or accountability. In this case, the individual is denying having said something in order to avoid acknowledging the power of their words or actions.

Question 7

According to your text,sometimes it is more appropriate to settle disputes on the basis of rights rather than power or interests.

Accepted Answer

The text states that settling disputes on the basis of rights may be more appropriate in certain situations, suggesting that it is sometimes a better option than relying on power or interests.

Question 8

In an intimate relationship,generally,the person who is least invested in the relationship has the most power.

Accepted Answer

In many cases, the person who is less invested in a relationship has more power because they have less to lose by ending the relationship. They may also have more leverage in decision-making and may be less emotionally attached, making it easier for them to make decisions without considering the other person's feelings. However, this is not always the case, and power dynamics can vary greatly in different relationships.

Question 9

Which of the following is not an example of denying the use of power?

Accepted Answer

Denying that the other person communicated anything is an example of invalidation or gaslighting, not denying the use of power. The other options (A, B, D, E) are examples of denying the use of power.

Question 10

Collaboration depends on a model of shared power.

Accepted Answer

Collaboration involves sharing power, authority and responsibility among all team members to achieve mutual goals. It is only through sharing power that individuals can trust each other and work together effectively. Therefore, collaboration depends on a model of shared power.

Question 11

Latisha appreciates the fact that she has been trained in the art of public speaking because she finds that in many situations she can employ her _____ as a power currency.

Accepted Answer

Latisha's training in public speaking has given her strong communication skills, which she can use as a power currency in various situations. She can effectively communicate her ideas, persuade others, and influence outcomes, making her an valuable asset in many settings.

Question 12

If you are in a low-power situation or relationship,the authors of your text suggest you accept it because there is not a lot you can do about it.

Accepted Answer

The text suggests that in a low-power situation or relationship, it is best to accept it because there is not much that can be done to change it.

Question 13

Most people in Western culture dislike exercising social power.

Accepted Answer

In Western culture, there is often a cultural preference for individualism and self-determination, which can lead to a reluctance to exert social power over others. Additionally, there may be a fear of being perceived as bossy, controlling, or aggressive if one uses social power. However, it is important to note that this is a general trend and individual preferences can vary greatly.

Question 14

Since destructive conflicts are often set off by struggles over perceived power, and given that power is relational,power always is in a state of change.

Accepted Answer

Power is not a fixed entity, rather it is constantly negotiated and constructed within social relationships. Changes in power dynamics can trigger conflicts that may escalate into destructive conflicts. Therefore, power always remains in a state of flux, and its distribution and perception may vary over time.

Question 15

Jake is always careful to arrive on time for work.He knows that his boss will deduct his pay for any missed hours.Jake's boss has what kind of power over him?

Accepted Answer

Jake's boss has resource control because they have the power to deduct pay for missed hours, which is a resource (money) that Jake depends on.

Question 16

Imagine you are looking for a new job.You know that your friend Alicia knows the vice president of a company where you would like to work.Your text would describe Alicia's influence on you as which of the following?

Accepted Answer

Alicia's connection to the vice president is an example of an interpersonal linkage, as it is a personal relationship that can potentially influence your job search.

Question 17

The fundamental concept in conflict theory is:

Accepted Answer

The fundamental concept in conflict theory is power. Conflict theory suggests that society is in a state of constant struggle between those with power and those without power. Those with power maintain their power through oppression and exploitation of those without power, leading to social inequality and conflict.

Question 18

Empowerment is most likely to occur when:

Accepted Answer

Empowerment is most likely to occur when there is a combination of sufficient expressions of interpersonal power and effective communication behaviors. This means that individuals who have the power to make decisions and take actions are communicating effectively with those around them, which enables others to feel empowered and motivated to take action towards achieving shared goals. Excessive expressions of power can lead to a feeling of disempowerment in others, while ineffective communication behaviors can limit the effectiveness of those with power. Individuals with low interpersonal power can still be empowered if they are able to communicate effectively and influence those around them.

Question 19

Which of the following is the most accurate statement about power currencies?

Accepted Answer

Developing a repertoire of currencies can help individuals share and balance power, as different currencies hold value in different contexts and situations. This allows individuals to have more options in negotiating and influencing outcomes. Options A, B, D, and E are not accurate statements about power currencies.

Question 20

Which of the following statements is not true of competitive power?

Accepted Answer

Competitive power is not appropriate when protecting children as the well-being of children should always be the top priority, and using power competitively can harm them physically or emotionally.

Quiz 4: Power: The Structure of Conflict