The group dynamics approach to leadership

Abstract

The new social science approach to business behaviour optimistically assumes that the modern executive has a grounding in social psychology and its latest sub‐division, Group Dynamics. The origins of Group Dynamics are to be found in the work of Kurt Lewin who emigrated to the United States in the inter‐war period. Research in group atmosphere and styles of leadership produced empirical evidence to support the concept of ‘democratic’ leadership. The ‘democratic’ leadership of the '30s and '40s is giving way to a more positive direct form of leadership. This article might be considered as an obituary notice for the ‘human relations’ oriented boss.

Citation

KELLY, J. (1965), "The group dynamics approach to leadership", Education + Training, Vol. 7 No. 2, pp. 62-65. https://doi.org/10.1108/eb015531