01 02 COMMON LEADERSHIP STYLES
This instructional PDF, part of Sara Canaday’s Lynda.com course “Transitioning from Technical Professional to Manager,” introduces the three classic leadership styles originally identified by social psychologist Kurt Lewin: Authoritative (Autocratic), Democratic, and Free‑Reign (Laissez‑Faire). For each style it defines the core behavior, explains how authority is distributed, and lists key advantages and disadvantages. The material is designed to help new managers understand the trade‑offs of each approach and to select a style that fits their team’s needs and organizational context.
Topics
Kurt Lewin’s Foundational Leadership Style Model
An overview of the historical origin of the three‑style framework, noting Lewin’s pioneering work and its continued relevance for modern management education.
Authoritative (Autocratic) Leadership: Centralized Power, Quick Decisions, Risks of Low Morale
Defines the style where the leader holds all decision‑making authority, outlines its speed and clarity benefits, and details drawbacks such as frustration, low morale, and reduced initiative among subordinates.
Democratic Leadership: Shared Decision‑Making, Higher Satisfaction, Slower Processes
Describes the style that delegates authority to subordinates, emphasizes two‑way communication, and lists benefits like improved morale and decision quality alongside challenges like longer decision cycles and potential token participation.
Free‑Reign (Laissez‑Faire) Leadership: Maximum Empowerment, Minimal Guidance
Explains the style where subordinates have full autonomy, highlighting advantages such as high job satisfaction and development opportunities, and disadvantages including lack of direction, possible conflict, and reliance on highly self‑motivated team members.