In group leadership, which description best fits an autocratic style?

• A. The leader provides minimal direction and lets group decide.
• B. The leader takes a hands-off approach and lets the group run itself.
• C. The leader gives orders to the group.
• D. The leader focuses on emotional processing.

Answer: (C)

Autocratic leadership in a group means the leader maintains tight control, making decisions and directing the group with clear, explicit commands. The description that fits best is the leader giving orders to the group, because it shows centralized control and directive action without seeking input or consensus from members. In contrast, minimal direction or a hands-off approach aligns with more permissive styles where the leader steps back and lets the group decide or run itself. Focusing on emotional processing describes the group’s content or process rather than how the leader drives decisions. Autocratic style is efficient for quick, clear directions, but it can limit member participation and ownership.