Which scenario illustrates coercive power?

• A. A supervisor threatens disciplinary action to ensure compliance
• B. A supervisor mentors and coaches
• C. A supervisor explains policy rationale to gain buy-in
• D. A supervisor delegates tasks to empower others

Answer: (A)

Coercive power works through punishment or the threat of punishment to get people to do what you want. In this scenario, the supervisor uses the threat of disciplinary action to make others comply, which is the classic use of coercive influence because the pressure comes from potential negative consequences rather than support or reasons.

This differs from mentoring and coaching, which build capability and trust; explaining policy to gain buy-in relies on understanding and legitimacy rather than fear; and delegating tasks to empower others focuses on autonomy and development rather than threats.