<P> The boundaries of democratic participation tend to be circumscribed by the organization or the group needs and the instrumental value of people's attributes (skills, attitudes, etc .). The democratic style encompasses the notion that everyone, by virtue of their human status, should play a part in the group's decisions . However, the democratic style of leadership still requires guidance and control by a specific leader . The democratic style demands the leader to make decisions on who should be called upon within the group and who is given the right to participate in, make and vote on decisions . </P> <P> Research has found that this leadership style is one of the most effective and creates higher productivity, better contributions from group members and increased group morale . Democratic leadership can lead to better ideas and more creative solutions to problems because group members are encouraged to share their thoughts and ideas . While democratic leadership is one of the most effective leadership styles, it does have some potential downsides . In situations where roles are unclear or time is of the essence, democratic leadership can lead to communication failures and uncompleted projects . Democratic leadership works best in situations where group members are skilled and eager to share their knowledge . It is also important to have plenty of time to allow people to contribute, develop a plan and then vote on the best course of action . </P> <P> The laissez - faire leadership style is where all the rights and power to make decisions is fully given to the worker . This was first described by Lewin, Lippitt, and White in 1939, along with the autocratic leadership and the democratic leadership styles . </P> <P> Laissez - faire leaders allow followers to have complete freedom to make decisions concerning the completion of their work . It allows followers a self - rule, while at the same time offering guidance and support when requested . The laissez - faire leader using guided freedom provides the followers with all materials necessary to accomplish their goals, but does not directly participate in decision making unless the followers request their assistance . </P>

Laissez-faire leadership is a style of leadership that is characterized by