When interviewing a newly graduated nurse for an evening position on an orthopedic unit, which question would indicate the manager is autocratic?

• A. Is the manager passive and non-directive?
• B. Does the manager ask for ideas from the staff when decisions need to be made?
• C. Does the manager foster dependency?
• D. Does the manager show different leadership styles depending on the situation?

Answer: (C)

Autocratic leadership centralizes decision-making in the manager and often creates dependency in the team. If the manager’s behavior would be shown by asking whether they foster dependency, that points to an autocratic style, because it implies staff rely on the manager to direct actions and have little autonomy. Autocratic leaders tend to issue orders, limit input from others, and maintain tight control, leaving staff waiting for instructions rather than acting independently.

In contrast, being passive and non-directive reflects a hands-off or laissez-faire approach, not autocracy. Asking for ideas from staff shows a participative or democratic style, and showing different leadership styles depending on the situation signals situational leadership—both of which differ from autocratic tendencies.