Which leadership style tends to give significant authority to subordinates and little direct supervision?

• A. Autocratic leader
• B. Democratic leader
• C. Paternalistic leader
• D. Laissez-faire

Answer: (D)

Laissez-faire leadership is all about giving subordinates a lot of freedom and stepping back from day-to-day supervision. It means the leader delegates decision-making, trusts the team to determine how to achieve goals, and provides minimal direct oversight. This hands-off approach works best when the team is highly skilled, motivated, and clear on objectives, because it relies on the members to manage themselves and stay aligned with the overall aims. In contrast, more directive styles involve the leader giving instructions and closely monitoring work, or involving others in decisions but still keeping a level of control, so they don’t fit the description of significant authority with little supervision. Paternalistic and democratic styles mix guidance or collaboration with oversight, rather than hand-off autonomy.