Which leadership style gives the leader final say in decisions, but subordinates can contribute, and communication is encouraged?

• A. Democratic leadership
• B. Transformational leadership
• C. Laissez-faire leadership
• D. Authoritarian leadership

Answer: (A)

This question is about democratic (participative) leadership, where the leader invites input from team members and encourages open communication, but ultimately retains the final decision authority. In this style, subordinates can contribute ideas, discuss options, and feel heard, while the leader makes the ultimate call after considering the group input. This balances collaboration with clear accountability and direction.

Why this fits best: it explicitly combines active input from subordinates with a final authority resting with the leader, and it emphasizes open, two-way communication.

Why the others don’t fit as precisely: authoritarian leadership centers decisions with little to no input from others. Laissez-faire leadership is very hands-off, with little direction from the leader. Transformational leadership focuses on inspiring change and elevating followers’ performance, often emphasizing vision and motivation rather than the leader’s final say in routine decisions.