Toxic Leaders
Jean Lipman-Blumen's book The Allure of Toxic Leaders does two things. First, it describes toxic leaders -- what they look like in a leadership situation and what they do -- and then it outlines the reasons why people who are obviously toxic still retain a lot of followers.
The first part of this comes in understanding some key elements of leadership. It requires followers, first and foremost, and it comes from a variety of sources including charisma and formal authority. These sources do not necessarily correspond with high quality leadership, which opens the door for toxic leadership to exist and also for it to have followers. One of the key attributes of toxic leaders is that they exploit the fears and desires of their followers, manipulating emotions to achieve their objectives. The objectives are usually not related to the best interests of the followers, hence the toxicity of the leader.
Toxic leaders can often emerge in times of crisis. During these times, followers look for stability. A toxic leader might be in a position of power or rise to a position of power at this point, because they are able to offer a simple solution, no matter how complex the problem. This solution will not accurately address the problem, but it will have a simple emotional appeal to the followers. The followers are searching for stability and solutions...
According to the DSM-IV, a sociopath must have, at least three of the following characteristics: 1. Failure to conform to social norms; 2. Deceitfulness, manipulativeness; 3. Impulsivity, failure to plan ahead; 4. Irritability, aggressiveness; 5. Reckless disregard for the safety of self or others; 6. Consistent irresponsibility; 7. Lack of remorse after having hurt, mistreated, or stolen from another person" (Connor). It does not take any stretch of the imagination
ILE L100 I was pretty enthusiastic when I returned to the 56th ABCT having been ordered to assume responsibility as the deputy brigade commander (DCO). I felt proud and lucky. I had held the proud and shinny image of the 56th ABCT in my head for the last two years. When I returned, there had been some significant changes. It has not been long since I returned, and with the division
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