Discuss the Three Common Styles of Leadership Found Within Style

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The Answer is An authoritarian leader takes charge and has a high level of intellect and expertise, making all the decisions and dictating strategies and work tasks Lewin, Lippit, & White,
1939). This type of leadership is appropriate in military, sports, or crisis situations. For example, military organizations have a highly authoritarian structure, and in battle, the chain of command must be rigorously followed because there's no time for discussion or trial and error. Authoritarian leadership is also appropriate in crises. Democratic leadership is the style we are most familiar with, and the one that seems to work best in many group situations. A democratic leader's style is characterized by a great deal of input from group members; the qualities of this leader are best summarized by Lao-tse 550 b.c.e.): "A good leader is one who talks little; when his work is done, his aim fulfilled, they will all say 'We did this ourselves'" cited in Foels, Driskell, Mullen, & Salas, 2000, p. 677). In this style, group discussion determines all policies, strategies, and division of labor. Members are free to assume a variety of roles, to contribute when appropriate, and to share leadership. In contrast, some small group situations call for a laissez-faire style. This style is characterized by complete freedom for the group in making decisions. The leader participates minimally and may supply materials and information when asked, but he or she makes no attempt to evaluate or influence the discussion. The laissez-faire style may work well when little is at stake, as in some social groups like book clubs or gourmet clubs.

Discuss the Three Common Styles of Leadership Found Within Style

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