What approach is used when you have the legitimate authority to make a specific request?

The approach that involves having the legitimate authority to make a specific request is referred to as legitimization. This authority may come from a formal position, role, or responsibility within an organization that grants a person the right to make requests or demands. When using this approach, the individual relies on their established power to persuade others, effectively emphasizing that compliance is expected due to their role.

Legitimization is particularly effective in situations where the authority's decisions are respected and acknowledged. It helps to ensure that the request is taken seriously, as it aligns with the understood norms of respect for hierarchy or established procedures within the organization. This makes it a powerful way to influence behavior, especially when the request aligns with organizational goals or policies.

The other methods, while useful in different contexts, do not focus specifically on the aspect of authority. Personal appeal relies on emotional connections; reciprocity is based on mutual exchange or the expectation of favors; and negotiation emphasizes compromise. Each of these has its situational advantages, but only legitimization distinctly governs requests made under a sanctioned authority.