Canadian Health Information Management Association Practice Exam

What is referred to as the capacity to influence others through admiration?

1. Coercive power.

2. Position power.

3. Referent power.

4. Reward power.

The correct answer is: Referent power.

The term that describes the capacity to influence others through admiration is referent power. This type of power arises when an individual has qualities that others find appealing or admirable, leading those individuals to want to emulate or follow them. This influence is typically based on personal traits, charisma, and the ability to build strong relationships, making others feel positively towards the individual with referent power. In contrast, coercive power involves the ability to influence others through fear or the threat of punishment. Position power is derived from one's position or role within an organization, where the authority of that position grants influence over others. Reward power, on the other hand, is based on the ability to provide positive reinforcement or rewards to others, motivating their compliance or support. Thus, referent power stands out as it is built on admiration and the personal connection rather than fear or authority.