BUS 5411 - Portfolio Activity Unit -02
University of the People
BUS 5411: Leading in today’s Dynamic Context
Portfolio Activity Unit -02
Dr. Chris Lorenz Marcelo (Instructor)
SEP/20/2023
Ghieath Aldaher
BUS 5411 - Portfolio Activity Unit -02
Introduction
Lewin categorized leadership styles into three distinct approaches: authoritarian, democratic, and
laissez-faire (delegation). In this portfolio, I will provide a comprehensive explanation of each
leadership style. Subsequently, I will analyze the outcomes of the attached questionnaire to
discern which leadership style aligns with my personality within Lewin's theoretical framework.
Autocratic leadership represents an authoritative approach where decision-making authority is
concentrated in the hands of the leader. Team members do not have the opportunity to voice their
opinions on decision formulation or offer direct criticism. This style is best suited for situations
involving crises or emergencies, where strictness is crucial for safeguarding lives.
Democratic leadership, on the other hand, entails the leader being an active participant in the
group, collaborating in decision-making, and valuing input from team members during the
planning and execution phases. This style fosters creativity and strengthens the camaraderie
among team members (Boogaard, 2019).
While the leader ultimately has the final say, it is grounded in the recommendations put forth by
the team. This approach is particularly effective for initiating projects or devising operational and
organizational policies and procedures.
Laissez-faire (delegation) leadership involves the leader delegating certain responsibilities and
tasks to team members. They are afforded the autonomy to determine their working methods, as
well as the allocation of responsibilities and expected objectives. The leader must provide
guidance and training to their team in adopting this style of leadership (Boogaard, 2019).
BUS 5411 - Portfolio Activity Unit -02
In exigent circumstances, it is imperative to have multiple individuals capable of assuming
leadership roles within the team, adhering to a fundamental principle of teamwork: the continuity
of operations even if there is a change in leadership for any reason.
Questionnaire Results:

Authoritarian: 19

Democratic: 25

Laissez-faire: 19
These results resonate with my beliefs and practices in both my personal and professional life. I
tend to avoid a domineering approach unless the situation demands a firm stance. Often, I adopt
a democratic approach, valuing collaboration and shared decision-making. This collaborative
dynamic extends to my partnership with my wife, where we jointly make significant decisions.
At work, I thrive in an environment where teamwork and collective planning prevail.
Additionally, recent events have highlighted the importance of delegation leadership within my
small team, especially in the aftermath of the earthquake, where we took turns managing
communications and departmental decisions.
In this regard, Lewin's theory may fall short in fully explaining who I am as a leader. While it
provides valuable insights into general leadership styles, it may not capture the adaptability and
responsiveness required in dynamic and rapidly changing environments. A more flexible and
context-sensitive approach to leadership theory could potentially offer a more accurate depiction
of my leadership philosophy and practices.
Conclusion
BUS 5411 - Portfolio Activity Unit -02
Adapting various leadership styles to suit specific circumstances is essential. No one style can be
universally favored across all scenarios (Leadership Success, 2022).
The choice of style is contingent upon factors such as the work environment, organizational
structure, individual capabilities, and the nature of the situation at hand.
References:
Boogaard, K. (2019, January 23). What Kind of Leader Are You? 8 Common Leadership Styles
(and Their Pros and Cons). Themuse.com; The Muse.
https://www.themuse.com/advice/common-leadership-styles-with-pros-and-cons
Leadership Success. (2022). Leadership Styles - Lewin’s leadership styles.
Www.leadershipsuccess.co. https://www.leadershipsuccess.co/leadership-styles/lewinsleadership-styles