U.S. Army Chaplain's Mitigation of Negative (Toxic) Leadership
Abstract
Chaplains can play a unique role in mitigating negative and toxic leadership. Army Doctrine Publication 6-22 Leadership describes negative and toxic leadership as it undermines basic tenets of Mission Command. Such leadership thwarts mutual trust and team-building, mocking Army senior leadership's commitment to high standards of ethical conduct and professionalism. Properly aware, equipped and supported, chaplains can provide effective mitigation of negative and toxic leadership in their organizations. Army regulations directly inform chaplains' ability to act. Chaplains advise their commands about the personal impact of leadership practices. They are evaluated for their consultation and confrontation skills and risk-taking ability. Regulations not only authorize chaplains' mitigation of negative or toxic leadership, but expect it. But the Chaplaincy ought not to be drawn into conflict with Command. Chaplains are especially challenged when the negative leader is their immediate superior. Senior chaplains' intentional mentoring and supervision may yield positive proactive solutions.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 13, 2013
- Accession Number
- ADA613191
Entities
People
- Lewis R. Messinger
Organizations
- United States Army Command and General Staff College