5 Disadvantages of Unequal Power Distribution in a Team

Unequal power in a team dimension and its uses are unique in groups. These are discussed in the following paragraphs:

1. Ways of distribution: Groups vary in the ways power is distributed. When groups have unequal power levels among members, there tends to be more mistrust, less communication, and more social problems than in more egalitarian groups.

2. Less communication: Groups with powerful leaders tend to have less communication and more autocratic decision making, thereby reducing the quality of team decisions.

3. Status differences: Unequal power is often caused by status differences, which have an impact on team communication. High-status members talk more and are more likely to address the entire group.

4. Hampers good decision making: Members communicate more with high-status people and pay more attention to what they say. Low-status members often talk less and are unwilling to state they’re true opinions if they differ from those of high-status people. So high-status people have more influence in group discussions. This communication pattern does not lead to good decision making or the satisfied and motivated team members.

5. Use intimidation: When power is unequal because of status or other factors, a team can try to improve the situation by using group norms to equalize power and control. The group may have norms that encourage open and shared communication, prevent the use of intimidation or threats, and value independent thinking. All these help to reduce the impact of power differences in the group.

Related Content of Organizational Power:

• What is the Meaning of Organizational Power?
• Two Faces of Power Proposed by David McClelland
• Theories of Organizational Power
• Tactical Dimensions or Strategies of Power
• Advantages and Disadvantages of Autocratic Leadership
• Advantages and Disadvantages of Democratic Leadership
• What is the Definition of Authority?
• What are the Characteristics of Authority?
• Difference between Power, Authority, and Influence
• Difference between Power and Authority
• The Elements of Power
• Importance of Power in an Organization
• Sources of Power in an Organization
• Forms of Power in an Organization
• Measurement of Power in an Organization
• Disadvantages of Individual Power
• Impact of Power on Others