In which of the following patterns of interpersonal communication and quality relationship is maintained but each person also has authority over different domains?

The correct answer is A, the balanced-split pattern. In this pattern the quality of the relationship stays equal and healthy, but authority is divided by domain: each person is the final word in a different area, for example one partner decides finances and the other decides operations. Neither dominates the whole relationship.

Why the others fail:

• B (Equality pattern): both persons share the same domain and decisions are taken jointly, so there is no split of authority across domains.
• C (Unbalanced-split pattern): authority is split by domain, but the quality of the relationship is unequal, so one party is effectively subordinated.
• D (Monopoly pattern): one person holds authority over everything and the other is subordinate, so there is neither a split nor equal quality.

Core concept: interpersonal communication in organisations, where relationship quality and the distribution of authority are two separate variables. This links to Mains GS-IV on leadership, delegation and team dynamics, since good delegation keeps mutual respect intact while dividing the work.

Trap: aspirants pick B because "equal" sounds ideal. Read the question carefully: it asks for equal quality plus divided authority, not shared authority.