Final answer:
A democratic leader views team members as equals, inviting collaboration and is effective when the members are skilled and motivated. This leadership style is known for fostering consensus and participation, though it can slow down decision processes.
Step-by-step explanation:
A democratic leader views members as equals, inviting collaboration; this is effective when members are competent and motivated. Democratic leaders prioritize group participation in decision making, endeavoring to build consensus before action is taken. This leadership style is prevalent in settings where active member engagement is critical, such as in clubs or committees. However, this approach may slow down decision-making due to the time it takes to reach a consensus, and it might lead to the risk of creating opposing factions within the group.
Modern organizations often have flat organizational structures, encouraging equal partnership between employees and managers. There is a greater inclination for managers to solicit feedback from all levels, forming collegial relationships that advance the organization's goals. This aligns with the shift towards democratic leadership which values collective decision-making and team-oriented goals.