Which leadership style is defined by close employee-centered concern and protective behavior toward staff?

Which leadership style is defined by close employee-centered concern and protective behavior toward staff?

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

Answer: (A)

Paternalistic leadership combines close, staff-centered concern with protective, guiding authority. The leader acts like a guardian—caring for employees’ welfare, offering support, and shielding them from problems—while still making decisions and retaining control. This blend of warmth and protective direction is what characterizes this style. Autocratic focuses on control with little regard for welfare, democratic invites staff input, and laissez-faire is hands-off. So the described behavior fits paternalistic leadership because it emphasizes both care for staff and protective guidance.

Paternalistic leadership combines close, staff-centered concern with protective, guiding authority. The leader acts like a guardian—caring for employees’ welfare, offering support, and shielding them from problems—while still making decisions and retaining control. This blend of warmth and protective direction is what characterizes this style. Autocratic focuses on control with little regard for welfare, democratic invites staff input, and laissez-faire is hands-off. So the described behavior fits paternalistic leadership because it emphasizes both care for staff and protective guidance.