The underlying logic of the distinction between the two constructs of empowerment rests
on the meaning that is attributed to the concept of power (Conger and Kanungo, 1988). The
relational construct is built on the social exchange theory, where power is viewed as
dependence of actors. Respectively Conger and Kanungo (1988) define relational
empowerment as a process of sharing formal authority, or control over an organisation’s