Using a variety of methodological and theoretical perspectives, the authors of this collection discuss women's power within the various sociocultural contexts in which women operatesuch as the workplace, the family, and other interpersonal relationshipsand the differential nature of women's power and influence over their life course. Personality characteristics associated with mastery and influence are examined, as are the limitations imposed by societal norms and expectations. Finally, the authors discuss the development of theories about women's power and suggest ways in which women's rolesand consequently, women's influenceare changing as new societal values evolve.