Management of Toxic Leadership in Military Unit

Abstract

This research aims to investigate the conditions that foster toxic leadership, the characteristics associated with toxic leaders, the impacts of toxic leadership and guidelines for effectively managing toxic leadership in military units. The qualitative study was conducted through documentary analysis and in-depth interviews with officers in regular military units. The key informants included individuals ranging from Private to General in army ranks. Additionally, open-ended questionnaires were completed by personnel from military units operating in the three southern border provinces, resulting in an overall sample size of 15 participants. The research findings indicate that effective management of toxic leadership characteristics in military units begins with identifying the conditions that contribute to toxic leadership. These conditions include factors related to education, work, daily living circumstances, stress and the impact of leadership on subordinates. Upon encountering these circumstances, proactive measures are essential to mitigate them. This should be accompanied by efforts to reform or modify existing systems or institutions that still have problems. These include addressing issues within the family, the SOTUS system, leadership transition and mentorship, the organizational structure, the chain of command, and mission objectives that may contribute to the emergence of toxic leadership. In addition, it is imperative to establish a conducive environment characterized by stability, cultural values, effective checks and balances, and systemic reinforcement. Notably, the findings of this research cannot be compared with those from other government agencies because of the distinct structural and systemic differences inherent in the military unit.