CHAPTER ONE

GENERAL INTRODUCTION

Introduction

 Across the world, human have used a variety of power tactics to push or prompts other people into particular actions. The use of power has evolved from centuries. Gaining prestige, honor, and reputation is one of the central motives for gaining power in human nature. Power tends to corrupt and absolute power corrupt absolutely. Human behavior leads towards sovereignly. Either a person gets supremacy or attempt to be supreme. It really has independency on one’s capability (John Dalber-Action power). Power is not an institution, nor a structure, nor possession. It is the name given to a complex strategic situation in a particular society. (Foucault, 1990) this is because power is present in each individual and in every relationship.

 Gray, Gaines chapel states that no two people in the world are completely alike, this can lead to power struggle in relationship, whether it be in friendship, romantic partnership or family since people all have different life experience that lead to specific preference and personalities, they often have areas of disagreement when trying to share their life with someone else. Power generally does not begin at the beginning of a relationship. When one partner holds power over another, it often leads to vindictiveness and contempt. (Foster capital. 2023) power struggle are an inherent part of human nature and can be observed in various aspect of life from personal relationship to politics and business. These battles for control often arise when individuals or groups have conflicting interest of different vision for a particular outcome. One key aspect of understanding power struggle is recognizing that different individuals may have contrasting viewpoint and motivation each party involves in a power struggle brings their own set of experience, values, and goals to the table. For instance, in a corporate setting, a manager may seek to maintain control over project to save the position within the company, while employees may strive for autonomy and recognition of their contribution. By acknowledging these diverse perspectives, we can begin to unravel the complexities of power struggle.

Power struggle often stem from fear and insecurity. Individuals may feel threatened by the potential loss of control or influence, leading them to engage in tactics aimed at maintaining their power. This fear can manifest in various ways such as manipulation, intimidation, or even sabotage. Power struggle also arise from conflicting interests and values. When two parties have divergent goals or priorities, they may engage in a battle for control to ensure that their interests prevail. Power according to Hans Morgenthau in politics among Nations (no.year), is man’s control over the minds and actions of other men. Drives to live, Propagate and dominate are common to all men. Struggle for power is universal in time and space and an undeniable fact of experience. Aspiration for power is the distinguishing element of all politics, and hence of international politics.

 Musaazi (1982) in his book “the theory and practice of educational administration”. Power is a form of raw energy that enables a person to carry out his or her own will despite the protection of others power is based in involuntary compliance, with resistance overcome through threats or the use of physical, economic or social force. Thus power accrues from holding access to or the actual possession of resources physical, personal, economic and social or psychological that someone else desires. If the control over what someone else wants is removed, the person’s power over others will be reduced accordingly. In a negative sense, power maybe control over punishment or negative rewards that a person seeks to avoid. It is important to note that power play situation; the subordinate complied because he or she must or else face deprivation of some kind. Power is a general and comprehensive term which includes control that is rigidly of starkly coercive as well as control that is based on non-making process in organizations. Just as it is demonstrable in the business and politics world. For instance, in the secondary school systems of many African countries, pressure groups such as religious bodies, ethnic groups, parents and teachers do compete for power to

Background of the study

Historical, Power struggles can be trace back to 1750s BCE in the ancient Mesopotamia where the rise and fall of empires like Sumer, Akkad, and Babylon were marked by constant power struggles between city-states and rulers.  The Code of Hammurabi, dating back to 1754 BCE, reflects the need for a strong central authority to maintain order and prevent chaos. Mintzberg,(1983).The medieval period was characterized by a decentralized system of power, with feudal lords vying for control over land and resources.  The Hundred Years’ War (1337-1453) between England and France was a prime example of a protracted power struggle fueled by territorial ambitions.  The Thirty Years’ War (1618-1648) was a devastating conflict that involved multiple European powers, fueled by religious and political tensions. 

Drucker.(1998), The 16th to 20th centuries saw European powers colonize vast territories, leading to power struggles between colonizers and colonized populations.  The American Revolution (1775-1783) and the Indian Rebellion of 1857 were examples of resistance against colonial rule. The Cold War (1947-1991) was a geopolitical struggle between the United States and the Soviet Union, fueled by ideological differences and nuclear arms race.  The Cold War era witnessed numerous proxy wars and conflicts, as both superpowers sought to expand their influence. The 20th and 21st centuries have witnessed numerous social movements and revolutions, driven by demands for equality, justice, and political change.  The Arab Spring uprisings (2010-2012) and the Black Lives Matter movement (2013-present) are examples of power struggles against systemic oppression and discrimination.  Power struggles have been a constant feature of human history, and their impact on staff management practices can be traced back to the earliest forms of organized work. Here’s an overview of how power struggles have shaped staff management throughout history. Following World War II, labor unions gained significant power, advocating for improved working conditions and worker rights.  This led to a more collaborative approach to staff management, with managers negotiating with unions to establish fair wages and benefits. Power struggles have played a significant role in shaping staff management practices throughout history.  From the rigid hierarchies of ancient civilizations to the more collaborative approaches of the 21st century, the balance of power between managers and employees has constantly evolved.  Understanding this historical context is crucial for developing effective and ethical staff management practices that promote fairness, respect, and collaboration.

Conceptually, Power struggles in educational organizations are often rooted in differing views on decision-making, leadership, and authority between administrators and teachers. Blase and Blase (2002) describe how such power dynamics can lead to “micromanagement, excessive monitoring, and intimidation” of teachers by principals .These power imbalances can have significant detrimental effects on staff management and school climate. Kelchtermans and Ballet’s (2002) research suggests that teachers’ sense of vulnerability and lack of autonomy during power struggles contribute to burnout, job dissatisfaction, and high turnover  Ingersoll’s (2001) study further linked principal-teacher power imbalances to increased teacher attrition in US schools .Conversely, research indicates that promoting collaborative, distributed leadership models can have more positive impacts on staff outcomes. Hulpia et al.’s (2015) study found that shared leadership between principals and teachers was associated with greater organizational commitment and job satisfaction among staff

From a conceptual perspective, power struggles in schools can be understood through the lens of micro politics ,the “informal, interpersonal, and intergroup processes” that shape decision-making and influence within organizations (Blase and Blase, 2002) This micropolitical framework highlights how power dynamics, rather than just formal structures, can significantly impact staff management and school functioning.

Theoritically, Conflict Theory pioneered by Karl Marx. (1867), emphasizes the inherent conflict arising from unequal distribution of resources and power within social systems. In education, conflict theory suggests that power struggles stem from competing interests and limited resources among staff members, administrators, and stakeholders. For example, teachers may struggle for control over curriculum, teaching methods, and assessment practices, while administrators strive to maintain order and efficiency.

Social Exchange Theory. (Homans,. (1961). Social Behavior: Its Elementary Forms.( Blau 1964), Exchange and Power in Social Life.), focuses on the exchange of resources and rewards in social interactions. Individuals engage in power struggles to maximize their gains and minimize their losses in these exchanges. In education, this translates to staff members seeking recognition, rewards, and resources for their contributions. Power struggles can arise when staff members feel their contributions are not adequately acknowledged or rewarded, leading to dissatisfaction and conflict. Also, MichelFoucault’sPower/ Knowledge Framework(1979),emphasizes the interconnectedness of power and knowledge. Power is not simply a tool for oppression but also shapes and produces knowledge, which in turn reinforces power structures. In education, this framework highlights the influence of power structures on knowledge production and dissemination within educational institutions. Power struggles can arise from attempts to control the curriculum, teaching methods, and assessment practices, reflecting the inherent power dynamics in knowledge production and control.

By understanding the theoretical underpinnings of power struggles and their impact on staff management, educators can develop effective strategies to promote a more equitable, collaborative, and productive work environment, ultimately benefiting students and the entire school community.

Contextually, Power struggles within the educational system can have significant impacts on staff management and overall organizational dynamics (Smith, 2021). As schools and districts navigate complex political, economic, and social landscapes, tensions can arise between administrators, teachers, unions, and other stakeholders (Jones, 2022).These power struggles often center around issues of resource allocation, decision-making authority, and the implementation of policies and reforms (Wilson, 2020). For example, conflicts may emerge between principals seeking to assert their leadership and teachers advocating for greater autonomy and input (Davis, 2019). Disagreements over professional development, curricular changes, or performance evaluation systems can also contribute to power imbalances (Thompson, 2021).

The effects of these power struggles on staff management can be far-reaching. They can undermine morale, erode trust, and create an environment of uncertainty and mistrust (Zhao, 2022). This can lead to increased staff turnover, difficulties in recruiting and retaining high-quality teachers, and challenges in implementing effective instructional practices (Miller, 2023).Moreover, unresolved power struggles can have negative impacts on students’ educational experiences and outcomes (Nguyen, 2022). When educators are preoccupied with navigating internal conflicts, they may be less focused on meeting the needs of their students (Chen, 2021).

To address these challenges, educational leaders must prioritize effective communication, collaborative decision-making, and the development of shared goals and values among all stakeholders (Williamson, 2023). Strategies such as mediation, conflict resolution, and the establishment of clear policies and procedures can help mitigate the detrimental effects of power struggles on staff management and the overall quality of education (Li, 2022).

Statement of the Problem

A world of system designed to keep people in unjust and unequal position is held in place by several interrelated expression of power struggle. Political power, economic power, physical force, at ideological power (Bishop, 199.36). Power is a possession of control, authority or influence over others. In terms of power of dominant groups over subordinate groups, power has domination of one group of people over another in major important spheres of life. Power inequities have been in existence throughout the history of humanity and as a result have led to disrespect for hierarchy, administrative infighting, administrative gossip, resistance to change, fight to dominant all. It has also lead to jealousy, compition, treath and personal interest.

 It is on these grown that the researcher is urge to write, investigating the impact of power struggle on staff management with the hope to change the system which is causing power struggle amongst the school administrators particularly in Tubah Sub-division.

Objective of the Study

This is made up of both general and specific objective

General Research Objective

Generally, this study is to investigate the impact of power struggle on the staff management rate in Tubah Sub-division.

Specific objectives

 Study specifically, this seeks to:

• Investigate the impact of disrespect of hierarchy on staff management in Tubah Sub-division
• Investigate the impact of administrative infighting on staff management in Tubah Sub-division
• Investigate the impacte of administrative gossip on staff management inTubah Sub-division

General Research Question

This is made up of both general and specific research questions

What is the impact of power struggle on staff management?

Specific Research questions

• How does disrespect for hierarchy affect staff management rate?
• How does administrative infighting affect staff management rate?
• How does administrative gossip affect staff management rate?