Power Motivation or Need for Power

Power motivation is a core motivational force that drives us to affect others’ behavior or emotions, to be perceived as influential, and to achieve recognition and status. While the power motive shows up in roles, status pursuit, and skills associated with power, it is distinct from these factors. Research finds power motivation can be conceptualized as two separable desires corresponding to distinct kinds of influence, as in a desire to influence for:

• Other-serving or prosocial ends: positively directed toward influence (leadership, activism, positive social change, innovation) or personal control (autonomy, self-determination). Individuals are drawn to careers in politics, business leadership, or teaching to influence others and achieve recognition. 
• Self-serving and antisocial ends: negatively directed toward control and dominance (aggression, exploitation, and authoritarianism). Also see Narcissist Power Motivation