Civil Service Supervisor Practice Exam

Which leadership style is most likely to result in low productivity and feelings of frustration among team members?

1. Transformational Leadership

2. Laissez-Faire Leadership

3. Situational Leadership

4. Democratic Leadership

The correct answer is: Laissez-Faire Leadership

Laissez-Faire Leadership is characterized by a hands-off approach where the leader provides little guidance and allows team members to make decisions independently. This leadership style can lead to low productivity and frustration among team members for several reasons. Firstly, without clear direction and support from a leader, team members may feel uncertain about their roles and responsibilities. This lack of guidance can result in confusion and misalignment on tasks, leading to a decline in overall team performance. Secondly, in a laissez-faire environment, team members may struggle to stay motivated, especially if they require feedback and structure to thrive. The absence of regular communication and oversight can result in disengagement, particularly among those who benefit from more active leadership participation and encouragement. Lastly, the lack of a cohesive vision often found in laissez-faire scenarios can lead to team members working in silos rather than collaboratively. This fragmentation may create feelings of frustration, as individuals may perceive that their efforts are not contributing to a larger goal, leading to a decrease in morale and productivity. In contrast, the other leadership styles listed, such as transformational, situational, and democratic leadership, typically involve more engagement and direction from leaders, which can foster a more motivated and productive team environment.