Sex and ethnic differences in the use of social power were investigated using role theoretical and attributional perspectives. Performance and self-attribution processes of power usage were related to ascribed versus achieved role characteristics. One hundred and sixty subjects, equal numbers of Chicano and Anglo males and females, participated as managers in an industrial simulation study. The subjects were randomly assigned to one of four experimental conditions defined by power versus no-power, and male versus female workers. It was hypothesized that Anglo males, in contrast to females and Chicanos, would make internal attributions for successful performance, experience less discomfort as powerholders, and attempt to influence subordinates to a greater degree. Overall, the data obtained from the Anglo males and Anglo females supported the hypotheses, while that from the Chicano groups did not. The most pronounced effects emerged on the ethnic variable, largely due to the behavior of Chicanas. In contrast to the Anglo females, the Chicanas' behavior was very similar to that of the Anglo males. Chicanas performed well in the powerholder role and did not experience the role discomfort of Anglo females. (Author)