Prepare for the Principles of Management CLEP Exam. Study with quizzes and flashcards; every question includes hints and explanations. Ace your test with confidence!

Each practice test/flash card set has 50 randomly selected questions from a bank of over 500. You'll get a new set of questions each time!

Practice this question and more.


According to McClelland, what is institutional power?

  1. The ability to create a cohesive team

  2. The ability to influence others to achieve results

  3. The ability to lead with charisma

  4. The ability to make decisions independently

The correct answer is: The ability to influence others to achieve results

Institutional power, as defined by David McClelland, refers to the ability to influence others to achieve results, making it pivotal in organizational dynamics. This concept is part of McClelland's theory of needs, particularly relating to the need for power. When someone possesses institutional power, they leverage their influence not just for personal gain but to enhance the effectiveness of their team or organization. This aligns with the broader objectives of the organization, focusing on collaboration and shared goals rather than individual recognition. Individuals with this type of power are often seen as effective leaders who can motivate others, promote teamwork, and foster an environment conducive to achieving organizational objectives. While the other options touch on aspects of leadership and influence, they do not capture the essence of institutional power. For instance, creating a cohesive team, leading with charisma, and making decisions independently are important attributes or skills but do not specifically denote the capacity to influence others towards collective results, which is central to McClelland's definition of institutional power.