Date

5-20-2026

Department

Graduate School of Business

Degree

Doctor of Philosophy in Organization and Management (PhD)

Chair

Joseph Elledge

Keywords

Leadership, Authoritarian Leadership, Job Satisfaction, Turnover, Workplace Environment

Disciplines

Business

Abstract

In this multiple-case study, I explored how authoritarian leadership behaviors influence employees' job satisfaction and turnover rates in healthcare organizations. Employee outcomes, including job satisfaction and turnover rates, significantly affect productivity and quality of care, and leadership style is a key factor shaping these outcomes. I used the research questions to examine the relationship between authoritarian leadership behaviors and healthcare workers’ organizational commitment. Additionally, I explored how these behaviors affect employees' job satisfaction and impact employee turnover rates in healthcare organizations. Guided by a pragmatic approach, I examined the experiences of healthcare workers, including registered nurses (RNs), licensed practical nurses (LPNs), certified nursing assistants (CNAs), caregivers, and department managers working under authoritarian leaders in nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and home care agencies. I interviewed 25 participants, and 5 major themes emerged from the data. These themes include lack of appreciation and recognition, overcentralized control and decision-making, workplace climate of fear, negative leadership attitudes and behaviors, and ineffective and one-way communication. The results revealed that authoritarian leadership behaviors directly contribute to lower job satisfaction and higher turnover rates, highlighting the significance of leadership style on employee outcomes in healthcare organizations.

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