what is charisma classified as
Charisma and Power. Charisma is a form of referent power, which social psychologists John French and Bertram Raven identified as one of the five bases of power. Referent power is influence that you have because other people like and respect you. With that in mind, remember that charisma can be misused. Don't use it to manipulate others into doing something that is against their interests.