What term is used for enforcing strict obedience to authority, resembling an autocrat?

The term that describes enforcing strict obedience to authority, resembling an autocrat, is indeed "authoritarian." This concept refers to a governing or leadership style where power is concentrated in the hands of a single leader or a small group, often characterized by limited personal freedoms and a lack of democratic processes.

In an authoritarian system, the leaders exercise significant control over many aspects of life and decision-making, prioritizing obedience and conformity to their authority. This approach suppresses dissent and typically does not allow for opposition or alternative viewpoints, contrasting sharply with democratic principles that encourage participation and representation.

The other choices reflect different governance styles or approaches: "authoritative" suggests a more balanced approach where guidance and support may be emphasized alongside discipline; "democratic" entails participation and power shared among the populace; "laissez-faire" denotes a hands-off approach with minimal intervention from authority figures. Therefore, "authoritarian" is the most accurate term to describe the enforcement of strict obedience and autocratic governance.