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Decoding laissez-faire leadership: an in-depth study on its influence over employee autonomy and well-being at work

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Listed:
  • Clément Desgourdes

    (Excelia Business School)

  • Jamila Hasnaoui

    (Excelia Business School)

  • Muhammad Umar

    (Lebanese American University)

  • Jesus Gonzales Feliu

    (Excelia Business School)

Abstract

This study investigates Laissez-faire leadership (LFL), an area often viewed negatively yet underexplored. Aiming to decipher LFL’s implications, particularly its ties with employee autonomy and well-being, the study distributed 4000 questionnaires via LinkedIn to various French organizations. Out of these, 226 were accepted and analyzed. The Multifactor Leadership Questionnaire measured LFL, while the Job Diagnostic Survey examined autonomy. Findings indicate LFL has a detrimental effect on workplace well-being, with autonomy serving as a key mediator. Additionally, LFL’s impact may differ based on individual expectations. These results emphasize the cautious adoption of LFL and spotlight autonomy’s importance. This research notably broadens our understanding of LFL’s role in the workplace.

Suggested Citation

  • Clément Desgourdes & Jamila Hasnaoui & Muhammad Umar & Jesus Gonzales Feliu, 2024. "Decoding laissez-faire leadership: an in-depth study on its influence over employee autonomy and well-being at work," International Entrepreneurship and Management Journal, Springer, vol. 20(2), pages 1047-1065, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:intemj:v:20:y:2024:i:2:d:10.1007_s11365-023-00927-5
    DOI: 10.1007/s11365-023-00927-5
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