In the __________ style of leadership, the leader presents a problem, gets suggestions and makes a decision.

• A. Autocratic
• B. Delegating
• C. Participating
• D. Laissez-Faire

Answer: (C)

This item tests how much involvement a leader seeks from others before deciding. The described approach—presenting the problem, inviting suggestions from others, and then making the final decision—fits the participative style. In this style, the leader values team input to inform the choice but still retains ultimate responsibility and authority to decide. It differs from an autocratic approach, where input isn’t sought and the leader makes the decision alone; from a delegating approach, where the team largely decides with minimal direction; and from a laissez-faire approach, where the leader provides little structure and leaves decisions mostly to others. For example, when a project is behind schedule, the leader gathers ideas from the team, discusses options, and then chooses the best path forward.