Social Power and Influence of Women

Using a variety of methodological and theoretical perspectives, the authors of this collection discuss women’s power within the various sociocultural contexts in which women operate-such as the workplace, the family, and other interpersonal relationships-and the differential nature of women’s power and influence over their life course. Personality characteristics associated with mastery and influence are examined, as are the limitations imposed by societal norms and expectations. Finally, the authors discuss the development of theories about women’s power and suggest ways in which women’s roles-and consequently, women’s influence-are changing as new societal values evolve.