Follower in a Submissive Role: Classification and Varieties
Passive Followers: Characteristics, Traits, and Behavior
Passive followers are individuals who lack active participation, critical thinking, and independent thought. Such individuals are often seen as absent or unengaged within a group setting, relying heavily on direction and supervision from leaders.
This category is one of five distinct types of followers, as outlined by the Kelley follower style model. This model categorizes followers based on two primary parameters: the degree of critical thinking demonstrated and the level of active participation exhibited.
Passive followers show minimal critical thinking and lack the drive to actively engage. They tend to merely perform their assigned tasks without questioning or exploring alternative approaches. In other words, they do not involve their brains enough or take real initiative.
It's important to note that this follower category is distinct from the other four, with each having varying levels of critical thinking and engagement:
- Alienated Followers: These individuals demonstrate independent and critical thinking but typically remain disillusioned and detached from their work.
- Conformist Followers: These thinkers actively participate but lack the ability to think critically. They tend to follow orders and be loyal to their leaders, even reaching extremes of loyalty.
- Pragmatist Followers: These followers have some independence in their thinking and involvement, but they tend to be cautious and stick to the status quo.
- Exemplary Followers: These individuals are highly engaged, independent thinkers who contribute constructively and proactively to organizational success.
By understanding these follower types, leaders can more effectively manage their teams and create a more cohesive, productive work environment.
Source:- Kelley, R. E. (1988). "Better Groups: Working Together in the 21st Century." Addison-Wesley.
Passive followers, as outlined by the Kelley follower style model, typically exhibit minimal critical thinking and a lack of active participation. Consequently, their lifestyle often revolves around performing assigned tasks without questioning or exploring alternative approaches, with little emphasis on education-and-self-development or career-development.
In contrast, exemplary followers, another type from the same model, are highly engaged, independent thinkers who contribute constructively to organizational success. This contrast in behavior and approach demonstrates the significant impact a follower's style can have on their personal development, relationships within the group, and overall productivity.
