Which form of power is based on a designated authority?

Legitimate power is rooted in the formal authority that a person possesses due to their role within an organization or system. This type of power derives from an individual's position, which grants them the right to make decisions, give orders, and expect compliance from others. For instance, a CEO, a manager, or a healthcare administrator exercises legitimate power when they enforce policies or direct staff in a healthcare setting. This power is recognized and accepted by subordinates because of the established hierarchy and organizational structure.

In contrast, other forms of power, such as referent, reward, and coercive power, do not primarily depend on a designated authority. Referent power arises from the ability to attract others based on personal traits, values, or relationships. Reward power is linked to the capacity to offer benefits or rewards to others, while coercive power is founded on the ability to enforce penalties or sanctions. Each of these power types plays a role in leadership and influence, but only legitimate power is directly associated with a sanctioned position of authority.