What is Leader-Member Exchange Theory (LMX)

The National Institute of Mental Health has reported that approximately 51.5 million people in the U.S. experience some form of mental illness and that anxiety is one of the most prevalent mental illnesses, with 31.1% of Americans experiencing some form of anxiety disorder in their lives. In this case study, one of the most common discriminatory behaviors toward all minority groups, microaggressions, is explored through the lens of leader-member exchange theory (LMX). LMX has been the foremost leadership theory used to understand the dynamics of mental illness in the workplace and how leaders interact and motivate those with disabilities or mental illness. The authors apply LMX to help leaders better understand their role in creating a more inclusive workplace.