Which leadership style is hands-off with very little planning or decisions?

• A. Democratic
• B. Laissez-faire
• C. Authoritative/autocratic
• D. Servant

Answer: (B)

The idea being tested is how much control a leader gives up to the team. In a laissez-faire style, the leader takes a hands-off approach, offering very little planning, direction, or decision-making and letting the team manage itself. This works best when team members are highly skilled, motivated, and capable of self‑direction; otherwise, goals can drift and accountability may erode because there’s minimal guidance and structure.

The other styles don’t fit this description. Democratic leadership involves the group in decision-making, so it isn’t truly hands-off. Authoritative/autocratic leadership centers on the leader making decisions and directing the team with clear control, which is the opposite of hands-off. Servant leadership emphasizes serving and supporting the team with active guidance and empowerment, rather than leaving things to run with little input or planning.