Yvonne is completing an internship at a public relations firm where Sharon is her boss. Yvonne's perception of Sharon's abilities is overwhelmingly positive. As their relationship grows, Yvonne finds that she wants to be like Sharon, and Sharon encourages Yvonne to choose a career in public relations. Sharon is exerting coercive power over Yvonne.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Coercive power involves the use of threats or punishment to force someone to comply with directives. In this scenario, Sharon is not using any threats or punishment to make Yvonne choose a career in public relations. Instead, Yvonne is inspired by Sharon's abilities and Sharon is simply providing encouragement. This is an example of referent power, where someone is admired and respected, and others seek to emulate them.

Yvonne Is Completing an Internship at a Public Relations Firm