Which need involves a desire for influence and control over others?

The need that involves a desire for influence and control over others is the Need for Power. This concept is rooted in a theory of human motivation that posits individuals have varying degrees of needs—one of which is the need for power. People who are high in the need for power seek to have an impact on others and are motivated by the desire to assert influence, lead, or control social interactions.

This need can manifest in various forms, such as wanting to be in leadership positions, striving for recognition, or engaging in competitive behaviors. Those with a strong need for power are often driven to achieve roles that allow them to exert control and influence decision-making processes, leading to a dynamic involvement in group activities and relationships.

In contrast, the Need for Affiliation focuses on social relationships and the desire to be liked or accepted, while Expectancy Theory and Equity Theory pertain to motivation based on expected rewards and fairness in social exchanges, respectively, rather than the desire for control over others. Understanding these distinctions reveals why the Need for Power is uniquely tied to influence and control in personal and professional contexts.