Which of the following is an example of a positional power source?

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Positional power sources derive their influence from the individual’s role or position within an organization or group. Coercive power is a key example of this type because it is based on the ability to enforce penalties, impose consequences, or create fear within others as a means to control their behavior. This power is directly tied to a person’s formal authority in the hierarchy of an organization, allowing them to command compliance or dictate actions through the threat of punishment.

In contrast, expert power stems from an individual's specialized knowledge or skills, and referent power comes from being admired or respected, rather than from positional authority. Informational power relates to the ability to control the flow of information. While these types of power can be influential, they do not originate from the formal position a person holds, distinguishing them from coercive power as the quintessential example of positional power.

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