Which statement best defines legitimate power?

Which statement best defines legitimate power?

• A. Legitimate power is formal authority tied to a position in the organization
• B. Legitimate power is based on personal affection
• C. Legitimate power arises from expert knowledge
• D. Legitimate power comes from rewards

Answer: (A)

Legitimate power is the formal authority that comes with a position in the organization. It means people are expected to comply with directions because the role itself authorizes the leader to make decisions and enforce rules within a defined scope. This is why the correct statement describes legitimate power as formal authority tied to a position. It doesn’t rely on personal liking (that would be referent power), on specialized knowledge (expert power), or on the ability to reward (reward power). In practice, a supervisor or chief can direct staff and implement policies because of their role, not because of personal charm, expertise, or incentives they can offer.

Legitimate power is the formal authority that comes with a position in the organization. It means people are expected to comply with directions because the role itself authorizes the leader to make decisions and enforce rules within a defined scope. This is why the correct statement describes legitimate power as formal authority tied to a position. It doesn’t rely on personal liking (that would be referent power), on specialized knowledge (expert power), or on the ability to reward (reward power). In practice, a supervisor or chief can direct staff and implement policies because of their role, not because of personal charm, expertise, or incentives they can offer.