Compare and contrast the following three types of leadership styles: (1) authoritarian; (2) democratic; and (3) laissez faire

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

Answer: Answers will vary. Suggested comparisons include group discussion and consensus occurring more under democratic and laissez-faire leaders, whereas authoritarian leaders tell group members what to do. Democratic and authoritarian are both more involved with their group members and group activities, whereas laissez-faire "nonleaders" let the group members do as they wish. Suggested contrasts include authoritarian leaders assume positions of superiority, giving orders and taking control of the group’s activity. Although authoritarian leaders can usually organize group activities with a high degree of efficiency and virtually eliminate uncertainty about who should do what, most problem-solving groups prefer democratic leaders. Democratic leaders involve group members in the decision-making process, rather than dictate what should be done. Democratic leaders focus more on guiding discussion than on issuing commands. Laissez-faire leaders allow group members complete freedom in all aspects of the decision-making process. They do little to help the group achieve its goal. This style of “nonleadership” often leaves a group frustrated because it lacks guidance and has to struggle with organizing the work. Authoritarian leaders and laissez-faire leaders are on opposite ends of the leadership spectrum.