Power in Relationships
“The power distribution in a relationship refers to who has greater ability to influence or exert control over others in the relationship despite resistance. Power is fundamental to all human relationships no matter how close or distant. Further, all relationships—heterosexual, homosexual, romantic, family, coworkers, and friends—can be characterized as power relationships regardless of whether power is an obvious component of the relationships. The distribution of power also affects a wide range of other relationship matters, including feelings of trust, satisfaction, violence, leisure, and longevity.”
-Encyclopedia of Human Relationships, 2009
-Encyclopedia of Human Relationships, 2009
"Domination always involves attempts to objectify the subordinate group."
-Black Feminist Thought (p. 69)
-Black Feminist Thought (p. 69)
Explanation of the Types of Dominance Displayed in Relationships:
Political Dominance
- Dominance in a relationship by means of wealth, jobs, and political power.
- Dominance in a relationship by means of aggression and violence.
- Dominance in a relationship by means of promiscuity, sensuality, and exploitation of the body.
(Collins, Black Sexual Politics, p. 199-212)