Final answer:
In the situational leadership model, the style with high task focus and low relationship focus is S1: Directing, which involves giving clear directions and closely supervising the team's execution of tasks.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the situational leadership model, the leadership style characterized by high task focus and low relationship focus is A) S1: Directing. This style is appropriate when leaders need to provide clear and specific directions to subordinates, especially when tasks are complex or urgent, or when the team requires a strong hand to steer them due to lack of knowledge or experience. In comparison, the other styles, including coaching (S2), supporting (S3), and delegating (S4), involve varying degrees of both task and relationship focus to suit different levels of team maturity and competency.
For example, an authoritarian leader exercising the directing style would likely issue straightforward instructions and closely supervise their execution, similar to the pattern described when communication flows from the top down. Conversely, coaching involves both a high task and relationship focus, supporting involves high relationship and low-to-moderate task focus, and delegating involves low task and relationship focus as the leader hands over responsibility to capable team members.