Case 12.1: Dealing with Passive-Agressives
Case synopsis and analysis
This is a unique chapter, with case studies that allow students to consider how to best deal with
conflict and internal struggles between leaders and followers. In this case study, a new addition
to the team, Lucas, is talking behind his boss’ (Robert) back, not meeting deadlines, and making
Learning objectives:
1) Students will begin to investigate methods to determine a person’s underlying
motivations and behavior rationales.
3) Students will begin to explore different techniques to manage a follower with passive
Answers to questions in the text:
1. Should Robert confront Lucas directly?
Many students will argue that Robert should confront Lucas. The professor should explore the
pros/cons of such a confrontation. If nothing is done, Robert will grow more resentful at the
2. What can the coach do to get Lucas to express his negative feelings openly?
A coach could use group coaching with Lucas to help him see his behavior patterns. Through
3. What subjects or issues should be explored with Lucas?
A coach can work directly with Lucas to uncover his motivations and discover why he behaves
the way he does. The coach could explore Lucas’s inner theatre and consider who might have
influenced Lucas in the past. Within the inner theatre, certain relationship themes develop over
4. What exercises can Lucas do to practice direct confrontation with Robert?
The key to managing passive-aggressives is to first help them recognize the source of their
subversive behavior, and then provide an opportunity to express their negative feelings openly
5. What can Robert do to improve his relationship with Lucas?
Potential teaching approaches:
Below is a way to structure a class based on skill theory and case study 12.1:
• Hold a lecture on the psychodynamic approach.
Exercises for this case study:
1) In small groups, students should hypothesize about Lucas’s motivation. Why does he act
the way he does? Students should create a list of possible reasons, based on the
2) Students could talk about a follower or leader with whom they had great conflict.
Perhaps this follower/leader had a style that was overly aggressive or passive-aggressive.
3) Role-play: students can role-play a coach, Robert and Lucas. First, create a list of