Which leadership style is described by the statement I have complete power over you?

• A. Democratic Participative
• B. Autocratic
• C. Laissez Faire
• D. Bureaucratic

Answer: (B)

Leadership styles and how authority is exercised within a team. The statement “I have complete power over you” points to an autocratic leadership style, where the leader makes decisions unilaterally and expects obedience with little or no input from others. This approach centers decision-making in one person, provides clear and direct instructions, and relies on centralized control to move quickly, especially in urgent or high-risk situations. In utility safety contexts, autocratic leadership can be effective for rapid, decisive actions when time is critical, but it can also dampen team input, reduce morale, and hinder safety culture if used as the norm rather than a tool for specific moments. The other styles described don’t fit as well: democratic participative involves sharing input and decision-making with the team, laissez-faire is a hands-off approach with minimal direction, and bureaucratic centers on strict adherence to rules and procedures rather than personal power.