Definition
First described by Lewin, Lippitt, and White in 1938, the autocratic leadership style was one of three leadership types documented. The autocratic leadership style is sometimes referred to as the directive leadership style, with characteristics that include:
Work methods dictated by the leader
Limited employee participation in most aspects of work
Unilateral decision making by the leader
Explanation
Lewin, Lippitt, and White were one of the first researchers to categorize leadership styles in terms of behavioral characteristics. Prior to their work, personal traits were the focus of leadership studies. In addition to autocratic leaders, this team also described laissez faire and democratic leadership styles.
The basis for their model was behavioral theory, which states that leaders are made, not born. That is to say, leadership does not come naturally. It is something that can be learned through classroom study and observation of others.
Related Terms
- First described by Daniel Goleman, emotional intelligence, or EI, is the ability to control, and understand one's own emotions, motivations, strengths, and weaknesses as well as those of others.
Moneyzine EditorSeptember 26th, 2023 - The study of the actions, or behaviors, that define a leader is known as behavioral leadership. First developed by Robert Blake and Jane Mouton in 1964, this theoretical approach to understanding leaders creates categories of styles, which are aligned with the actions the leader may take, or the methods they use to reach their goals.Moneyzine EditorSeptember 25th, 2023
