Written by AV Mercado, CEO of VETTED USA LLC on April 10, 2025

Toxic leadership is a pervasive issue that affects organizations across sectors, but the manifestations and impacts can differ significantly between civilian and military environments. Toxic leaders often create a culture of fear, devaluation, and mistrust, stunting personal and organizational growth.

Military Context

In the military, leadership is expected to be strong and directive, with a focus on mission accomplishment. However, this rigidity can sometimes lead to toxic leadership behaviors. One notable example from my own military experience is my last command sergeant major (CSM)—whose name I won't disclose, but who embodies toxic leadership.

During my tenure in the military, a particular Command Sergeant Major perpetuated an environment that was less about support and more about intimidation. Comments like, "You're better off and useful to me in a different lifetime" and "What's wrong with you? Did you take your pills?" reflect a profound lack of empathy. Such remarks created a culture where soldiers felt belittled rather than empowered, leading to diminished morale and productivity. He would often dismiss the importance of positive feedback by saying things like, "It's not my job to tell you you're doing a good job. That’s your family's job." This sentiment exemplifies the toxic cycle that many leaders perpetuate—a focus on results at the expense of individual well-being.

Civilian Context

In civilian organizations, toxic leadership can manifest through micromanagement, favoritism, or public humiliation. While military leaders often have the authority to enforce rigid discipline, civilian leaders may utilize manipulation or exclusionary tactics to control their teams. The consequences, however, remain the same: high turnover rates, low employee satisfaction, and a culture of fear that stifles innovation and collaboration.

The Difficulties of Toxic Leaders

Interestingly, one must ponder how toxic leaders can live with themselves amidst their behavior. Some may justify their actions by emphasizing results over relationships, believing that harshness is necessary for high performance. Others may be unaware of the damage they inflict, operating under outdated paradigms of leadership that prioritize authority over emotional intelligence.

It’s crucial to recognize that toxic leadership not only harms those directly under its influence but also perpetuates a cycle of negativity within the organization as a whole. The challenge lies in addressing these attitudes and creating environments where constructive leadership can flourish.

As someone who has navigated the complexities of toxic leadership in the military, I see the profound need for change. Both civilian and military leaders must prioritize empathy, support, and constructive feedback to foster healthier, more productive environments. Understanding and addressing toxic leadership behaviors is essential for both individual and organizational success.

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