This power base depends on the ability to reprimand, withhold rewards, and threaten punishment.

This power base depends on the ability to reprimand, withhold rewards, and threaten punishment.

• A. Legitimate Power
• B. Coercive Power
• C. Reward Power
• D. Expert Power

Answer: (B)

Coercive power is the ability to reprimand, withhold rewards, and threaten punishment to gain compliance. It works by creating fear of negative consequences, so people obey to avoid sanctions rather than because they buy into the idea or believe in its value. In a leadership or managerial role in nursing, this might show up as the authority to discipline staff, deny privileges, or threaten job-related penalties. While it can produce quick adherence, it often lowers morale, undermines trust, and can erode long-term motivation. Legitimate power comes from the formal position or title, not from threats or punishments. Reward power derives from control over rewards or incentives. Expert power stems from knowledge and expertise. These bases influence behavior for reasons other than fear of punishment, which is why they don’t fit the described scenario.

Coercive power is the ability to reprimand, withhold rewards, and threaten punishment to gain compliance. It works by creating fear of negative consequences, so people obey to avoid sanctions rather than because they buy into the idea or believe in its value. In a leadership or managerial role in nursing, this might show up as the authority to discipline staff, deny privileges, or threaten job-related penalties. While it can produce quick adherence, it often lowers morale, undermines trust, and can erode long-term motivation.

Legitimate power comes from the formal position or title, not from threats or punishments. Reward power derives from control over rewards or incentives. Expert power stems from knowledge and expertise. These bases influence behavior for reasons other than fear of punishment, which is why they don’t fit the described scenario.