Interpersonal Power Repair in Response to Threats to Control from Dependent Others

Abstract

Presents an analysis of reactions to control loss that occur within the context of relationships with an asymmetrical power structure and during interpersonal interactions. The authors note that such relationships are quite common in every day life and can result in an anomalous response. According to the authors, variations in reactions to threatened or actual control loss in such dependent relationships reflect chronic differences in relationship schemas. Those who chronically see themselves as having low power in dependency relationships are more likely to appraise a situation as a threat to control and defend against such threat. However, strategic responses of individuals who possess low power schemas will depend on the situational affordances that are available for control. Those with low perceived power are more likely to overreact and engage in abusive or coercive power tactics if control opportunities are available and to respond with avoidance and ingratiation tactics if control opportunities are not available. Research is reported that highlights the differences in interpretive schemas for organizing both cognitive processes and interactional styles. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2019 APA, all rights reserved)