Northouse, Leadership: Theory and Practice, Seventh Edition: Instructor Resource
Case 12.3
Case synopsis and analysis
John is a strong executive with extraordinary drive and commitment who suffers from bipolar
dysfunction. He is great in a crisis, effectively rallies people behind his causes, and has been
1. What should the board do with regard to John’s poor decisions? Should they fire him? What
alternative routes are available?
2. How can John be made aware of his disruptive behaviors?
Northouse, Leadership: Theory and Practice, Seventh Edition: Instructor Resource
3. What role can his wife/family play to help John address his bipolarity?
4. Within the workplace, what can be done to leverage John’s strengths (creativity) and minimize
his disruptive behavior? What type of structure will be a best fit for John in the organization?
2) Individually or in small groups, students could create a list of rules that might help limit
John’s impulsive and aggressive behaviors. For instance, John could agree to stay off e-
mail after 8 p.m. and/or work with a coach monthly on active listening skills.