Relational Theory of Power

Running head: RELATIONAL THEORY OF POWER
Relational Theory of Power
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Author Note

1RELATIONAL THEORY OF POWER
Power as viewed in the relational theory of power is not physical or brut power, it is
more the dynamics that exist within individual relationships, it is developed over time
(Cavner, 2015) and highly dependent on the control of resources between two parties (Hocker
and Wilmot 2011). The theory has a direct relation on citizens perception of law enforcement,
primarily through their own experiences and those instances that are projected in media.
Power can be designative, distributive and or integrative. Law enforcement officers’ posses
designative power, that they get as a result of their job and position. As the theory subscribes,
power does not rest with an individual but is in the relationship that exists.
Individuals’ perception of the law enforcement mechanism plays a vital role in the
success of these authorities to detect and prevent instances of crime and subsequently protect
the citizens. The perception of power is difficult to change as the same is buried deep in an
individual’s mind. The first step is to identify the relationships that individuals have, at an
individual and social level. The ability of the law enforcement officers to use sanctioned
force is a concern for all citizens and have an effect on their interaction and perception of
these men and women in uniform. Society at large fails to view them as individuals
possessing different skills, values and personality but see them primarily as projected by the
media. Several instances in 1999, 2006, 2010 in New York where unarmed men fell victim to
police action have colored the judgment of citizens. Movements such as #BlackLivesMatter
and the acts that led to such movement are rooted in the grievances and conflict that
communities feel towards the authorities meant to protect them.
When power becomes a factor in dispute it makes a resolution more difficult.
Resolution requires mutual empathy, responsibility and understanding, the same is hindered
when one party is in a position of power. As per the relational theory the law enforcement