Perception of power among dietitians

Power is a new concept in the field of nutrition that has increasing relevance for the survival of the profession in the 1990s. This study reports on dietitians' perception of power. A survey questionnaire was mailed to all members of the New Jersey State Dietetic Association (1,969 members). Usable responses were obtained from 521 dietitians (a response rate of 27%). The majority of respondents were female, married, and younger than 40 years of age; 37% were in clinical positions and 62% had completed internship and master's degree programs. Respondents rated power as very important (30%) or important (44%), and the terms accomplishments, control, intelligence, and connections were key descriptors of power. Power was felt to be acquired through knowledge, education, and position/title. The positions of department head, chief clinical dietitian, and nutrition support dietitian ranked in the middle of a power hierarchy. The top positions were chief executive officer and physician, and the bottom position was tray-line worker. Responses to "power" scenarios showed greater professional concern (60%) than personal concern (35%) over a clinical scenario (loss of control of the nutrition formulary) than a managerial scenario (threatened layoffs) (38% and 32%, respectively). Dietitians need to focus on and understand the concept and realistic use of power in the workplace. Initially, basic concepts and skills related to power must be incorporated into dietetics and continuing education using a gender-focused teaching approach.