Types of Behavioral Theory of Leadership

The Leadership Behavioral Theory focuses on how leaders communicate with others, which is on the opposite end of the continuum of leadership theory. Leadership is based less on one's characteristics in the concept of leadership behavior, and more on their abilities and modes of communication.

 The Authoritarian

This type of leadership requires uncompromised authority to issue commands. Those leaders are unwavering in their requests and frequently threaten team members who are not following orders, Lewin called it autocratic leadership style.

       The Delegator 

 Leaders who delegate are comfortable trusting others to do their jobs. They know that they can’t do everything themselves. In fact, they take a very hands-off approach. Lewin called this approach Laissez-faire leadership.


         The Participant

The focus is less on the leader in what Lewin calls the democratic leadership style, and more on the decisions of the group. A leader may direct the group but this approach is always controlled by the majority.

One leader may theoretically be able to choose from each of these three types, depending on which group or scenario is best for. The autocratic approach, for instance, might be better for a military unit, whereas a democratic approach would be better for a study team. There are structures for behavioral leadership strategies, but they do not generally deal with good or poor leading.