Which statement illustrates a contradiction in the espoused theory and the theory-in-use?

The correct answer highlights a clear contradiction between what someone claims to believe and how they actually behave. In this scenario, the first statement indicates that the individual professes to trust someone else to perform their job effectively, yet simultaneously feels the need to monitor their work closely. This reflects a misalignment because true trust typically involves allowing someone the freedom to perform their responsibilities without micromanagement.

Thus, the statement illustrates the inconsistency between the espoused theory—voice trust in others—and the theory-in-use, which is characterized by a controlling action that undermines that trust. The other options, while they also demonstrate contradictions, do not exhibit this specific dynamic of professing trust while simultaneously controlling behavior; each shows a different aspect of inconsistency related to beliefs and actions in a leadership context.