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Democratic and Authoritarian leaders are within the behavioral leadership category. Authoritarian (theory X) Democratic (theory Y)

The average human being has an inherent dislike of work and will avoid it if possible. Because of this most people must be made to put forth adequate effort toward objectives The average human prefers to be directed, wishes to avoid responsibility, has relatively little ambition, and wants security above all.

External control and threat of punishment are not the only means for bringing about effort toward organizational goals.

This theory sees people working because its natural. Under proper conditions humans want to achieve the goals of the group they are a part of.

Makes all the decisions and closely supervises or instructs people Co-workers are expected to simply do as told Co-workers reprimanded

Name some Authoritarian leaders.

Even with democratic leadership such as the USA we still have authoritarian leaders. Such as the military Would it be right for soldiers to vote on when to fight or when to retreat.

Most of us prefer a theory Y or democratic style America is founded on this concept Concept is essential to success of clubs, groups or organizations

Democratic leaders encourage the following characteristics in exercising leadership

Participation by group members Group cooperation Full expression of opinions Use of accurate and adequate information Careful thinking and evaluation Expression of all possible relevant suggestions Proper behavior by members

Use by leader who believes the group can make its own decisions without the leader or at least with little input.

Leaders need to answer three basic questions before selecting a leadership style 1. Is there an obvious solution to the task? 2. Is it important for the leader to make the decision? 3. Does the decision have to be made immediately?

If the leader answers yes to any of the questions they must make the decision If the answer is no then assess the situation and select the style. Styles include Telling, Selling, Participating, and Delegating

Determine the members ability and willingness to complete the activity. Low – telling Moderate to low – selling Moderate to high – participating High- delegating

Provides specific instructions and supervises performance. Tends to be authoritarian

Explains decisions and provides opportunities for clarification. Examples of other descriptors Explaining, clarifying, and persuading Tends to be democratic

Shares ideas and facilitates in making decisions. Tends to be democratic

Turns over responsibilities for decision and implementation. Tends to be laissez-faire style

Indicators of willingness- has an interest in the activity volunteers for the activity discusses the activity with others displays a positive attitude toward the group follows through with commitments

Indicators of Ability has experience in the activity has skills in related activities is intelligent and can think through problems can find and use resources effectively

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