Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) Organizational Leadership Practice Test

In the context of leadership, what does an authoritarian approach imply?

1. Employees make independent decisions

2. Employees readily defer to leaders

3. Employees collaborate freely

4. Employees follow consensus-based decisions

The correct answer is: Employees readily defer to leaders

An authoritarian approach in leadership is characterized by a clear distinction between the leader and the employees, where the leader retains significant control over decision-making processes. This implies that employees are expected to follow directives without much input or collaboration. In this style, the leader makes decisions and the employees are expected to comply, creating an environment where authority is centralized and hierarchical. This approach contrasts with other leadership styles. For example, in a collaborative environment, employees would work together and contribute equally to decision-making processes, which reflects options that emphasize cooperation. In contrast, the authoritarian approach places emphasis on obedience and deference to leadership, which aligns well with the correct choice.