According to social psychology, what does a person hold if they can influence the thoughts or behavior of others?

Study for the QCAA Year 12 Psychology Test. Use flashcards and multiple-choice questions with detailed hints and explanations. Be exam-ready!

A person who can influence the thoughts or behavior of others holds power. In social psychology, power is defined as the capacity of an individual to affect the beliefs, feelings, and behaviors of others. This influence can take various forms, such as coercive power derived from the ability to administer punishment, referent power stemming from personal traits or reputations, or expert power based on knowledge and skills.

While wealth, charisma, and authority can contribute to a person's ability to influence others, they do not encompass the broader concept of power. Wealth can provide resources that may enhance influence, but it is not a direct determinant of that ability. Charisma refers to the personal charm or appeal one has, which can be persuasive but is just one aspect of influence. Authority, on the other hand, usually refers to power that is recognized and legitimized by others in a specific context, but not all influential individuals hold formal authority. Therefore, power is the most accurate term that encompasses the various ways a person might exercise influence over others.

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