Which type of power is associated with line authority?

Line authority in an organization refers to the direct control one manager has over their subordinates, which is established by virtue of their position within the organizational hierarchy. This concept is closely tied to the notion of legitimate power. Legitimate power stems from an individual’s formal position in a company's structure, which grants them the right to make decisions, assign tasks, and direct the activities of others.

Those in positions of line authority possess legitimate power because their authority is recognized and accepted by others within the organization due to their rank or title. This acceptance and recognition enable them to influence or direct their team effectively.

While other types of power exist, such as physical power, which involves control over tangible resources or physical strength; resource power, which pertains to control over allocations or distribution of resources; and expert power, which relies on an individual’s knowledge or expertise, they do not specifically align with the definition and attributes of line authority. Therefore, the identification of legitimate power as the type associated with line authority is accurate and reflects a fundamental concept of organizational structure and authority dynamics.