When a person believes that the supervisor has an obligation to comply, this is an example of which type of power?

The concept of legitimate power stems from a person's recognition of the authority of a supervisor or leader within an established hierarchy or organizational structure. When an individual believes that their supervisor has an obligation to comply with directives or expectations, it reflects an acknowledgment of that person’s position and authority. This type of power is anchored in societal norms, organizational rules, and formal agreements that bestow the supervisor with the right to make decisions and expect compliance from their subordinates.

In contrast, other types of power, such as coercive power, rely on the ability to impose penalties or sanctions for non-compliance, while expert power is derived from one’s knowledge or skills that others respect. Referent power, on the other hand, is based on personal attributes and the admiration or respect others might have for an individual. Therefore, when a subordinate believes in the obligation of compliance from a supervisor, it clearly aligns with the principles of legitimate power, as it relates to the established authority granted by their role in the organization.