Power: a concept analysis.

Abstract

This paper follows the Walker & Avant approach to concept analysis of the concept of power. For the purposes of the paper, power was defined as the actual or potential ability or capacity to achieve objectives through an interpersonal process in which the goals and means to achieve the goals are mutually established and worked toward. The distinction between the views of power as 'power to' versus 'power over' are addressed in the literature review. King's conceptual framework was used as a guide. Defining attributes, antecedents and consequences of power, demonstration cases, and assumptions are presented. A theorem and testable hypothesis are proposed. The final product is a conceptual map which illustrates the contents of the concept analysis.