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Do people in positions of authority have different norms of assertion than those who are not?

Russel Kohter

As social beings, we tend to follow certain norms and expectations set by our society, and these may vary depending on our position in that society. It is normal to wonder whether people in positions of authority have different norms of assertion compared to those who are not, and it is an intriguing topic worth exploring.

Firstly, it is essential to define what we mean by 'positions of authority'. This term can refer to a wide variety of positions such as political leaders, CEOs, managers, law enforcement officers, and even parents. In essence, any role where an individual has power, control, or influence over others can be termed a position of authority.

People in positions of authority are often expected to exhibit traits such as confidence, assertiveness, and clarity of communication. This is because they are required to make decisions and take action, often with significant implications for others. As a result, they may have a different set of norms when it comes to assertion, as compared to those who have less power.

One example of this is in the workplace. Managers and supervisors are in a position of authority and are expected to lead their teams effectively. They must be assertive when it comes to meeting targets, delegating work, and addressing team performance issues. This does not mean that they are insensitive or rude in their communication style; instead, they may be more direct and to the point, so as not to waste time or cause confusion.

On the other hand, those who are not in positions of authority may be more hesitant or cautious when it comes to assertion. They may feel that they do not have the same level of influence or power, and therefore, they may be reluctant to speak out. This can manifest in various ways, such as avoiding conflict or not voicing concerns or opinions.

However, it is worth noting that this is not always the case. There may be individuals who are in positions of authority, but are not naturally confident or assertive. Similarly, there may be those who are not in positions of authority but are highly assertive and outspoken.

Ultimately, the difference in norms of assertion between those in positions of authority and those who are not will depend on various factors. These can include cultural background, individual personality traits, upbringing, etc. It is essential to understand that while there may be general trends, this is not a hard and fast rule.

In conclusion, people in positions of authority may have different norms of assertion than those who are not. This may be due to the expectations placed upon them, as well as their level of power and influence. However, it is important to remember that this is not always the case, and individual differences must be considered.