This week we talked about power struggles in relationships. I learned that there is a difference between conflict and power. Conflict can bring us closer when both people are trying to work something out together. When you have power over someone you have influence rather than control over them. There are different types of power. The first is coercive. This is when you are avoiding pain. The next is reward. This type of power is used when you are wanting something. The next is legitimate power. This is when you have a right to ask and a duty to respond. The fourth is expert power. This is when you have the power because of your knowledge and expertise. The fifth is referent power. You exhort this type of power when you desire to please your spouse. The last is informational power. It is when what your spouse wants is in your best interest.