Which power base is based on the ability to grant rewards for specific behaviors?

Which power base is based on the ability to grant rewards for specific behaviors?

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

Answer: (B)

The idea being tested is how leaders motivate others by offering rewards for certain behaviors. Reward power rests on the ability to grant rewards in response to specific actions—things like praise, bonuses, raises, preferred assignments, or career advancement. When people know that performing a behavior will lead to a tangible or valueladen reward, they’re more likely to repeat that behavior, which is the essence of positive reinforcement. Coercive power, by contrast, uses threats or penalties to force compliance, which can drive actions but often undermines trust and morale. Legitimate power comes from holding a formal position or title, so people comply because the role authorizes the authority. Expert power comes from possessing specialized knowledge or skills, leading others to follow because of expertise rather than the promise of rewards. So, the best answer is reward power because it is defined by the ability to grant rewards for specific behaviors.

The idea being tested is how leaders motivate others by offering rewards for certain behaviors. Reward power rests on the ability to grant rewards in response to specific actions—things like praise, bonuses, raises, preferred assignments, or career advancement. When people know that performing a behavior will lead to a tangible or valueladen reward, they’re more likely to repeat that behavior, which is the essence of positive reinforcement.

Coercive power, by contrast, uses threats or penalties to force compliance, which can drive actions but often undermines trust and morale. Legitimate power comes from holding a formal position or title, so people comply because the role authorizes the authority. Expert power comes from possessing specialized knowledge or skills, leading others to follow because of expertise rather than the promise of rewards.

So, the best answer is reward power because it is defined by the ability to grant rewards for specific behaviors.