Chapter 10 - Dynamic Power Theory

Dynamic Power Theory

Whether we recognize it or not, power is present in all relationships. It could be symmetrical and equal in a friendship or unbalanced and complementary in a parent and child relationship. According to Reflect and Relate, the dynamic power theory is when "people with only moderate power are most likely to use controlling communication and people with high power feel little need to display it." This is because people with little power feel more threatened and more of the need to use it, whereas people with high power d feel less of a need to use it because they know they will get their way if needed. 

At my workplace, the security department used to have a supervisor who had little power. His job was only to help with the schedule and make sure everyone was doing their job. He very often used controlling language and it made everyone uncomfortable and irritated. He even tried controlling my departments employees and that ended with backlash from coworkers and myself. My boss on the other hand doesn't use a lot of controlling language and when he does it is necessary and respectful. He knows we have to listen to him and that there will be consequences that he can enforce if not, making him less likely to use controlling language.