Which type of power includes coercive and reward elements and originates from a formal role?

• A. Information power
• B. Charismatic power
• C. Personal power
• D. Position power

Answer: (D)

Position power is the type of power that comes from holding a formal role within an organization. It includes the ability to reward and punish because those authorities are built into the position itself. When someone has a managerial or supervisory title, they typically can grant raises, praise, assignments, or perks (reward power) and can impose sanctions, penalties, or negative consequences (coercive power). This link to the formal role is what distinguishes position power from other power sources.

Other forms of power come from personal attributes or control of information rather than the role. Information power rests on access to and control over knowledge or data. Charismatic power derives from personal charm and the ability to inspire others, not from one’s official duties. Personal power comes from who a person is—expertise, credibility, or relationships—independent of their job title. Because the description emphasizes coercive and reward elements tied to a formal role, it points to position power.