Final answer:
A laissez-faire leader is least effective when the team lacks self-motivation, skills, or clear goals, which could lead to a lack of progress or group dissolution.
Step-by-step explanation:
A laissez-faire leader is least effective in situations where team members lack the necessary motivation, skills, or maturity to manage themselves. Since this leadership style involves a hands-off approach and relies on individuals to self-manage, it can lead to group dissolution and a lack of progress when the team does not have clear goals, guidelines, or the ability to self-regulate. Furthermore, in situations that require quick decision-making or have complicated issues that need expert guidance, the laissez-faire approach might not provide the necessary direction, potentially causing the team to flounder. Laissez-faire leadership contrasts with authoritative and democratic leadership styles, which offer more direction and group involvement, respectively.