The leader on the couch: A clinical approach to changing people and organizations, by Manfred F. R. Kets de Vries is a nice compliment to an earlier book by the same author, Leaders, Fools and Imposters. It is easy to read, accessible and provides managers and executives important content that should promote self, other, and organizational insights.
Part One has as its focus leadership pathologies. In particular narcissistic leaders as well as other types such a dramatic, controlling, dependent and self-defeating are described and explained in terms of the workplace problems they generate. Borrowing from Karen Horney, leadership is also examined from the perspectives of moving away and against others. This section is very helpful to anyone trying to better understand life at work that is irrational and at times punishing.
Part Two explores ways to change these leadership dynamics including a description of the author’s extensive seminar for senior executives aimed at promoting reflective leadership. In particular the chapter on executive coaching reveals the many sobering challenges involved in providing this service and well worth reading. Anyone offering or contemplating providing executive coaching can benefit from reading this chapter including executives who coach others.
Part Three describes unconscious group and organizational dynamics that are under appreciated and many times undiscussable without external facilitation.
The book concludes with the hope that authentic organizations and leaders can be nurtured into existence. Many elements of an optimal organizational culture are described and are worth noting.
