Paper Example on Critical Theory Approach

Explain What Critical Theory Approach Means to You as an Organization/Business Leader

Critical Theory Approach based on analyzing and critiquing the society as a whole in order to understand how it works and its influences on the world with an aim of changing it (Chandler & Kirsch, 2018). The approach was first unveiled by Karl Marx in his critique the way the economy and society worked. Later, The Frankfurt School developed the theory from Marx ideas. Critical Theory Approach challenges the way matters are handled in society. it looks social, cultural as well as historical dimension. It believes that it is not enough to understand how things are but the need to comprehend how it came to be. The aim of the theory is to enhance human conditions through undertaking moral judgment (Western, 2003). The emphasis on the theory is on the emancipation of humans from issues that hinder their development (Schedlitzki & Edwards, 2014). This knowledge is essential in handling problems and making decisions by trying to tackle the source of the problem.

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Organizations are complex in their operations and structures. They usually face many different changes ranging from dealing with human resources, clients, suppliers, competitors. In addition to knowing what is affecting the company, leaders must examine the underlying factors that lead to the issues. Therefore, a business leader should go an extra mile to understand the problem in the organization socially, culturally and historically. They should examine the thematic issues in the internal and external environment that lead to problems. They should also assess the bases of the issues at hand. Use of Critical Theory Approach is the only way managers can comprehensively handle the matters that affect individuals, processes and the organization as a whole (Schedlitzki & Edwards, 2014). The analysis is essential in decision making since, on top of dealing with the problems, leaders also address the root causes. Only by doing this can a leader be assured of solving organizational problems. Therefore, ensuring that they do not recur.

Critical Theory Approach in a Leadership Context

Leadership is an integral part of any association. Therefore, a leader should promote team cohesiveness, a healthy culture as well as a sense of belonging. I am a member of a group of seven. I am the leader. Our initial encounter came from our interest in the soccer. Then after realizing that we shared a common purpose, we decided to start an investment group. We have been in place for the last one year.

The group has managed to save money that we intend to purchase a property in the future. However, we have been facing disagreements within the members and lack of commitment to group goals. The group secretary, for instance, has portrayed laxity on a number of occasion in attending the meetings, which we have often resolved. Since the objectives of our union are valid, we had to find a solution to the problem.

I used the Critical Theory Approach to address the reasons for the secretary's behavior. The aim was to avoid disagreements that were threatening to disbar the group. As a leader, i critically assessed the factors that could have resulted in behavioral change. I discovered that our meeting time corresponded the secretary`s work schedule. Thus, she went to work instead of coming to the group. Initially, she only held one job but had to take a second one to supplement the family income. I realized that asking for a commitment to attend all the meetings was not enough but I had to find out why it was happening and how we could resolve the matter. We had a consultative meeting with the members and resolved to reschedule our sessions to accommodate the secretary. This was a good decision since she was very instrumental in the existence of the group. Through effective communication, we managed to clear the matters. Hence, our investment group is solid.

Describe and Discuss How Critical Theory Approach Is Relevant To Your Future Professional Practice

Critical Theory Approach demand that issues must be critically assessed to not only solve the problem but also deal with the causes. The ideologies of the theory are relevant to my future professional practice in many ways. After college, I will consider all the possible avenues that will increase my chances of getting employment. Hence, in addition to having a good academic background, I will volunteer for the experience. This will improve my skills, knowledge, and attitudes for employability. Hence increase my chances of getting a satisfying job. This decision will be taken to deal with the issue of employment and the need for experience, which usually leads to graduates not securing jobs.

When I get into employment, I will not be quick to judge the people I interact with or the organization. I will first analyze the reasons for people`s behavior and attitudes. Also, I will examine the organizational aspects that are undesirable that may hinder my performance. In understanding why they are so, I will in my own small ways try to lobby for change. Moreover, if facing a challenge at work, I will not only solve the problem but will research on the cultural, historical and social aspects related to the matter. Since it may be a common problem in the organization, it would be prudent to assess why it often affects our work. By doing this, I will be aiming at solving the underlying causes instead of only dealing with what is at hand.

References

Chandler, J. L., & Kirsch, R. E. (2018). Critical Leadership Theory: Integrating Transdisciplinary Perspectives. Cham: Springer International Publishing.

Schedlitzki, D., & Edwards, G. (2014). Studying leadership: Traditional and critical approaches. London: Melbourne: Sage.

Western, S.(2003). Leadership: A critical text. London: Sage