The Psychodynamics of Leadership

Rating:
Summary: Essential for leaders and consultants!
Review: This text presents much needed material in the area of applied consulting work based on the psychodynamic or psychoanalytic tradition. I have used chapters from Part I (Organization Theory and Visions of Leadership) in my graduate level OD course, and chapters from Part II (Transformational Leaders: Vulnerability, Diversity, and Connection) extensively in my work with clients, especially female leaders. The chapter by Kathy Kram and Marion McCollom Hampton, "When Women Lead: The Visibility-Vulnerability Spiral," is particularly helpful. These women articulate the dynamics that face women in leadership roles in a way that is understandable and applicable for managers and consultants. Many of my clients resonate strongly with the authors' case material. I highly recommend this book for organizational consultants and leaders.