FBLA Public Policy & Advocacy Practice Exam 2025 – Complete Preparation Guide

The correct answer is legitimate power, which is defined by a person's position or authority within an organization or social structure. This type of power is derived from the formal position held by an individual, which grants them the right to make decisions, give commands, and expect compliance from others. For example, a manager has legitimate power over their team because their authority stems from their role within the organization, allowing them to guide and direct the actions of subordinates.

Legitimate power is critical in organizational settings because it establishes a clear hierarchy and delineates responsibilities. When individuals recognize and accept a person's legitimate authority, it results in a more structured environment where roles and expectations are understood.

In contrast, coercive power relies on the ability to force compliance through threats or punishment, rather than authority. Influential power is more about the ability to persuade others through charisma or personal relationships, not based on a formal role. Transformational power involves the ability to inspire and motivate followers to exceed their own self-interests for the sake of the organization, which again is different from the authority derived from a position. Understanding these distinctions helps clarify how different types of power operate in various contexts, particularly in leadership and management frameworks.