What type of power involves the ability to punish or withhold rewards?

Coercive power is the type of power that involves the ability to punish or withhold rewards to influence others' behavior. This form of power is often associated with a certain level of fear or compliance, as it relies on the potential negative consequences of not adhering to the wishes of the person wielding this power. For example, in a workplace or organizational setting, a manager who can impose penalties or remove perks has coercive power, as employees may comply with the manager's directives to avoid punishment or loss of privileges.

In contrast, reward power operates on the opposite principle, where individuals are influenced by the potential of receiving rewards rather than the threat of punishment. Legitimate power derives from an individual's position or role within an organization or social structure, granting them authority because of their title or status. Reference power is based on the admiration or respect a person has, leading others to be influenced by them out of loyalty or desire for affiliation. Each of these other types of power plays distinct roles in influence and authority, but coercive power specifically emphasizes the element of punishment.