Which description best fits an autocratic leader?

• A. Autocratic leader: Dictator, maintains total control, seldom asks for opinions, benefits in emergencies.
• B. Autocratic leader: Encourages group consensus and seeks opinions.
• C. Autocratic leader: Passive and hands-off.
• D. Autocratic leader: Emphasizes personal development and empowerment.

Answer: (A)

Autocratic leadership centers on central control and unilateral decision-making, where the leader makes quick, definitive choices and rarely seeks input from others. The description that fits this best portrays a dictator-like approach: total control, few to no opinions solicited from the team, and a pattern that can be advantageous in emergencies where clear, fast commands are essential.

The other descriptions align with different styles: encouraging consensus and seeking opinions reflects democratic or participative leadership; being passive and hands-off matches laissez-faire leadership; and emphasizing personal development and empowerment aligns with transformational or servant leadership.