Final answer:
A lack of leadership by the CEO of a nonprofit is most likely to lead to drift, decline, and failure. Leadership styles like laissez-faire and democratic can have different impacts on an organization, but a leadership void can create uncertainty and operational issues within a nonprofit, potentially necessitating restructuring or intervention.
Step-by-step explanation:
A lack of leadership by the CEO of a nonprofit organization can lead to multiple outcomes; however, when focusing on the inherent effects within the organization itself, the most likely result is C) Drift, decline, and failure. Without effective leadership, an organization can lack clear direction, suffer from poor decision-making, and ultimately encounter operational and strategic challenges. A corporate takeover (A) is not typically a concern for nonprofits, restructuring of leadership (B) may occur as a response to leadership deficiencies, and a more democratic method of leadership (D) might emerge as an alternative to hierarchical leadership but is not a guaranteed outcome of weak leadership.
Looking at leadership styles, a laissez-faire leader models a hands-off approach, allowing group members to make their own decisions. On the other hand, democratic leaders involve group members in decision-making, and strive for consensus, which can at times slow down processes. These leadership styles contrast with authoritarian leaders, who are directive and focus primarily on meeting goals.
Organizations, including nonprofits, might sometimes experience a shift in structure due to a lack of leadership. Although this can lead to a restructuring of leadership, it does not inherently result in a corporate takeover, as the ethos of nonprofit organizations differs significantly from for-profit corporations. Additionally, a change in leadership does not automatically lead to a more democratic leadership style without intentional shifts in organizational culture and governance.