The supervisory style in which the supervisor develops faith and confidence in his/her subordinates and involves them in the decision making is known as a?

Appeared in: DSSSB -28 August 2019 (Shift-2)

Explanation

The core of the question describes a leader who 'develops faith and confidence' and 'involves them in the decision making'.
This directly aligns with the definition of a Democratic (or participative) leadership style, where the leader acts as a facilitator, values team input, and shares decision-making responsibilities.
This style is characterized by a sense of equality, open communication, and trust between the leader and the followers.
The focus is on collaboration and building a productive workgroup, which enhances morale and commitment.

Option A: The Laissez-faire style is a 'hands-off' or permissive approach. The leader provides minimal direction and delegates most decision-making to the group. This is different from the active involvement and guidance described in the question.
Option B: A Benevolent (or paternalistic) leader is protective and tells subordinates what to do for their 'own good'. While they may seem caring, they do not involve subordinates in decision-making, which fosters dependency rather than confidence and participation.
Option D: The Autocratic style is the opposite of the style described. An autocratic leader centralizes power, makes all decisions independently, and expects subordinates to follow orders without question. This style does not build faith or involve others in decisions.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Leadership and Supervisory Styles as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
In nursing, democratic leadership is often implemented through shared governance councils, where staff nurses participate in decisions about clinical practice, quality improvement, and the work environment.
This style is proven to increase nurse retention and job satisfaction because it makes staff feel valued and respected.
What if the situation was a 'Code Blue' (cardiac arrest)? In this emergency, the most effective style would shift from democratic to autocratic. The team leader must give clear, direct commands to ensure rapid and coordinated life-saving interventions, as there is no time for group discussion.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the key phrases in the question: 'develops faith and confidence' and 'involves them in the decision making'.
Analyze what these phrases imply about the leader-subordinate relationship. They suggest trust, collaboration, and shared power.
Next, review the definitions of the leadership styles provided in the options.
Compare the implications from the question with the definitions. 'Autocratic' is directive and controlling. 'Laissez-faire' is hands-off. 'Benevolent' is paternalistic but still controlling.
The 'Democratic' style, which emphasizes participation and shared decision-making, is the only option that perfectly matches the keywords in the question.

Concept Tested & Keywords

Concept Tested: Leadership and Supervisory Styles
Stem keywords: supervisory style, faith and confidence, subordinates, involves them in the decision making
Lead-in keywords: known as
Negative lead-in flag: false

QvC5wtXTOk7o4RnNG5TPF1

E6 Nursing_Management_and_leadership_Johny_Kutty_JosephCbs_Publishers (pp 16-364 of 374) pp. 157-159, 138-140

E6 Textbook of Nursing Management and Leadership I. Clemen — Subpart B (pp 328-654 of 982) p. 164-166

Practise the full DSSSB -28 August 2019 (Shift-2)

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.