What best describes democratic leadership styles?

The democratic leadership style is characterized by a collaborative approach where decisions are made in conjunction with the group. This involves actively seeking input and feedback from team members, fostering an environment where everyone feels valued and engaged in the decision-making process. Leaders who adopt this style encourage participation and take collective opinions into account, which can lead to higher levels of team morale and creativity. This collaborative effort not only helps in making more informed decisions but also promotes a sense of ownership among team members, enhancing their commitment to the outcomes.

In contrast, the other choices reflect different styles of leadership that do not embody the principles of democratic engagement. For instance, making decisions independently by the leader reflects an authoritarian style, while allowing workers complete autonomy suggests a laissez-faire approach, where minimal direction is provided. Similarly, dictating tasks without input indicates a top-down management style that restricts team involvement in the decision-making process. Thus, the essence of democratic leadership lies in its inclusive and participative nature, which is aptly captured by the correct choice.