Which leadership style combines protective, employee-centered concern with directive control in a workspace?

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

Answer: (A)

The style being described blends care for employees with clear, directive control. It acts like a guardian figure who looks after welfare and development, but still makes key decisions and gives strong direction to ensure goals are met. That combination of protective, employee-centered concern and top-down guidance is characteristic of paternalistic leadership.

Autocratic focuses mainly on control with little regard for staff welfare. Democratic emphasizes participation and shared decision-making, not directive control. Laissez-faire leaves much of the decision-making to employees with minimal guidance.