Posts: 598
Threads: 286
Joined: Sep 2012
What do you understand by Authoritarian or Autocratic style of leadership?
Posts: 598
Threads: 286
Joined: Sep 2012
These kinds of leaders give definite instructions, demand compliance, emphasise task performance, exercise close supervision, permit very little or no subordinate influence on decisions and do not welcome suggestions from them. Such a leadership style is negative because subordinates are uniformed, insecure and afraid of leader's authority. Such a leadership style may take two forms oppressive and benevolent.
Under oppressive leadership style, a leader follows autocratic styles in a very strict sense. The leader carries out decisions through fear, threats, punishment, penalties etc. His method of influencing subordinates' behaviour is through negative motivation. Thus subordinates do what they are old, without questioning their superior. Under benevolent autocratic style, a leader takes into account the wishes, feelings and needs of subordinates. His motivation styles are positive. This style is also reflective of the fact that the only true superior-subordinate relationship consists of subordinates doing what they are told without questioning the superior.
The main advantages of this leadership style are strict compliance and quick decisions. But there are more disadvantages. Authoritarian leadership leads to high rate of grievances, absenteeism and turnover. Punitive supervision adversely affects production. Workers under autocratic leaders also expressed less satisfaction than those under democratic leaders. Employees lack motivation. Considering the organisational efficiency and employees' satisfaction, autocratic style generally is not suitable.
