What are Power Dynamics?
Power dynamics can look like exploitation of differences in financial status, life experience, authority, physical health, mental health, available resources, age, gender and race.
Harmful power dynamics can occur in any interpersonal relationships including: romantic relationships, friendships or in the workplace.
Things to look out for:
- Physical boundaries crossed – eg unwanted touching or not respecting personal space
- Emotional boundaries crossed – eg ignoring or belittling emotions or gaslighting
- Controlling behaviour – eg controlling finances or other relationships
Trust Your Gut
If something feels wrong take a step back and fully evaluate – there may be red flags you have missed.
What can you do if you feel you are in a harmful relationship?
Reach Out
Who or what you reach out to will depend on your situation. Here are some suggestions
- Friends
- Family
- School Staff you trust
- Romantic Partner(s)
- Union Representatives
- HR department
- Charities or Organisation
Reduce Contact
Aim to limit contact with the person or people harming you. Potentially cutting them out of your life completely if this is reasonable and possible for you. For any remaining contact try to set (and enforce) clear and firm boundaries for what you are and are not comfortable with.
Do your best to form (or reform) a strong support network of people away from the unhealthy dynamic.
Prioritise your safety and welbeing.
Remember
Be aware of any power imbalances within a relationship and look out for any signs that those imbalances are being exploited.
Increase healthy contact with people you trust and (where possible) decrease contact with people who are causing harm or giving you red flags.