ABSTRACT

In the present study, participants had to explain the behavior of some agents and targets of influence when the interactions involved the power bases mentioned by Raven (1998) in the power/interaction model of interpersonal influence. The behavior of the target of influence was either a complaint or rebellious behavior. Participants had to explain such behavior referring to different internal attributions (willingness, belief, personality or interest) and external attributions (others’ will, fate, luck or circumstances). As expected, results show frequent internal attributions when explaining the agent’s behavior and rebellion. Results underline the necessity to consider not only the internal/external dimensions but also the nature of behavior.

KEYWORDS: power, attribution, rebellion, compliance

PAGES:237-248