Small Group - Chapter 9

2. If everyone in the group is responsible for how the group functions, what do you think the leader should do?

I think that the leader’s job is to oversee the group’s functions, to make sure that each area is going as it is meant to. I also think that it is important for the leader to recognize when a certain area is lacking and be willing to step in and fulfill that role. Theoretically, if the group is responsible for how it functions, then the leader’s role is basically just to oversee, mediate, and fill in the gaps.

3. Under what type of leadership are you most comfortable working? Why?

The type of situation I am involved in often determines the type of leadership I am most comfortable working with. If there is time, and I feel like the majority of the group is qualified to give input, I usually prefer a democratic leader. This type of leader encourages all group members to participate in the process, and usually everyone feels more involved.

If there is no time for discussion, or I feel like there are group members who are highly unqualified to give valuable input into the decision, I definitely appreciate an autocratic leader. These types of leaders are dominant leaders who make decisions for the whole group, and control the group.

I usually prefer either democratic or autocratic leaders in most situations, but there are occasions that allow for a Laissez-Faire leader. These leaders are designated leaders, but are not very involved in the workings of the groups: they do not facilitate the discussions, help make the decisions, or control the group in any way. While in almost every case, this type of leader frustrates me the most, there are a few occasions that I would prefer it. For example, If all group members where highly qualified, highly motivated, and able to operate the group together without a leader figure, then a laissez-faire leader would be appropriate.

In general, however, I mostly prefer an autocratic leader. While it is nice to have a say in discussions or decisions on occasions, in most cases I would much prefer someone to simply tell me what to do. This is because I tend to be very indecisive, so it is always helpful for someone to just make the decision for me!