Toxic Leadership

Abstract

This subject aims to explore the effects of toxic leadership in organisations and society and the behaviour of organisational/social leaders. This subject explores psychological, systemic and sociological approaches that assist in responding to toxic leadership styles and behaviours. The subject will also critically explore the tension between dysfunctional leadership and the perception of leaders as heroic or transformational. The subject will present a range of challenging scenarios such as incompetence, bullying and abuse of power. Students will work to develop a personal ethical framework and practical strategies to identify and respond to social and organisational toxicity.

Syllabus

Introduction to toxic leadershipTypes of toxicityResilient leadership: Responding to toxicity with courage and wisdom

Learning outcomes

Upon successful completion of this subject, students should:

be able to identify and critically discuss perspectives of toxic leadership and how they relate to the practice of leadership;

be able to analyse the complexity of toxic leadership which involves a relationship between leaders, their followers and the social situation;

be able to explore and develop resilience strategies and techniques in response to toxic situations; and

be able to build and apply a personal ethical response framework for the practice of leadership.

Assumed knowledge

MGM501

Enrolment restrictions

Post graduate students only.