Final answer:
Eleanor has coercive power over Dan because she can threaten him with the loss of his job if he doesn't meet expectations such as being on time; coercive power is one of several types of powers used by individuals in positions of authority to control and influence behavior. The correct option is B.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the scenario described where Dan is afraid that he could be fired by his boss Eleanor if he doesn't show up to work on time, Eleanor exhibits coercive power over Dan. Coercive power is the ability of a leader or a person in a position of authority to influence others' actions by imposing threats, sanctions, or punishment. Eleanor's potential to fire Dan if he does not adhere to expected behaviors, such as punctuality, is a form of coercive power, as it involves penalizing non-compliance.
The concept of power can be categorized into different types based on the foundation upon which it is built. While reward power is based on the ability to provide positive benefits, and legitimate power stems from one's formal position or role within an organization, referent power comes from personal traits that command others' respect and admiration. The option 'coercive power' is the correct choice in this context because it directly relates to the ability to punish or threaten as a means of control, which accurately reflects Eleanor's position over Dan.
Exploring different types of power helps us understand social dynamics and the mechanisms through which individuals or leaders maintain order and encourage compliance within a framework, be it a workplace, community, or political entity. The use of coercive power is common in various hierarchical structures where rules and expectations must be followed to retain harmony and function efficiently.