The effects of power on relationships and on *individuals

An analysis of interdependence structure suggests that every close relationship has an underlying power structure that influences both the individuals in the relationship and the relationship itself. The present work seeks to demonstrate that both relative power and mutuality of power are associated with individual well-being, and that mutuality of power is associated with couple well-being. Questionnaires concerning individual well-being and couple well-being were administered to a sample of dating partners (Study 1) and a sample of marital partners (Study 2). In Study 3, participants in a dating relationship kept diaries of decisions made within the relationship as well as completing questionnaires concerning individual well-being and couple well-being. Relative power level was found to be related to degree of dependence on the relationship, but high relative power produced few benefits to individual well-being. Mutuality of power was found to be related to both individual well-being and couple well-being. Limitations of the present work and suggestions for future research are discussed.