Final answer:
The democratic leadership style involves encouraging group participation in decision making, aiming to reach consensus before acting.
Step-by-step explanation:
The leadership style in which the leader allows subordinates to participate in decision making and problem solving is known as the democratic leadership style. Democratic leaders are known for encouraging group participation in all decision-making processes and strive to build consensus before moving forward with any actions. This approach is common in settings where members collaboratively decide on activities or projects, like in various clubs or team-based environments.
However, the democratic process can be slow due to the time it takes to reach a consensus, and there's a risk of creating factions within the group if the members become divided.
In contrast, other leadership styles such as laissez-faire and authoritarian take different approaches to decision making and group management. A laissez-faire leader tends to take a hands-off approach and lets group members self-manage, which can be beneficial in scenarios where individuals are highly motivated and mature, but also carries the risk of group disengagement. Authoritarian leaders, on the other hand, are very directive and often issue orders with the main goal of achieving specific organizational goals. These leaders might not encourage participation but can be effective in situations requiring quick decision-making and clear direction.
Each of these leadership styles has its own advantages and drawbacks and can be effective in different circumstances. The key is to understand the dynamics of the group and the situation to decide which style is the most appropriate for achieving goals and facilitating productivity within a team or organization.