Final answer:
Autonomy is when followers are given the freedom to organize their work and set their own goals, characteristic of the laissez-faire leadership style.
Step-by-step explanation:
When a supervisor gives followers the freedom to organize their work projects and set their own goals, this is called autonomy. Autonomy is a key component of the laissez-faire leadership style, which is characterized by a 'hands-off' approach and allows members of the group to make their own decisions. This style is opposed to authoritarian leadership, where leaders issue orders and assign tasks, and micromanagement, where a leader closely observes or controls the work of their subordinates. Delegation, although it can incorporate elements of autonomy, is more about assigning specific tasks to others, whereas autonomy involves giving overall freedom in project organizing and goal setting. In contrast, hierarchy refers to the chain of command within an organization.