Which concept is illustrated by a police officer directing traffic and arresting suspects?

• A. Dual power (power over both employees and the public)
• B. Coercive authority
• C. Delegated authority
• D. Informal power

Answer: (A)

This illustrates how authority operates across both internal and external groups. A police officer has formal power to enforce laws and direct public behavior (such as steering traffic and detaining or arresting suspects), which shows control over the external world and its people. At the same time, that officer also exercises authority within the organization—commanding other officers, coordinating actions, and ensuring procedures are followed—demonstrating power over employees. This combination of influencing both the public and the department’s staff is what’s meant by dual power.

While coercive power is part of what the officer uses (the ability to compel compliance through arrest or enforcement), the scenario’s emphasis on authority extending to both the public and internal personnel makes dual power the best fit. Delegated authority would focus on where the power originates, and informal power relies on informal influence rather than formal legal authority, which doesn’t capture the full scope shown here.