Biology Reference
In-Depth Information
most prominent leaders have contributed to the notion that great leaders are
born rather than made. Figures such as Martin Luther King, Jr, Abraham Lin-
coln, Julius Caesar, Mahatma Gandhi, and many others to whom monuments
have been erected, influence the perpetuation of this theory. Although this the-
ory can apply to women (i.e., Mother Theresa, Catherine the Great) the term
“Great Man” was used because, at the time, leadership was thought of primarily
as a male quality, especially in terms of military leadership.
Trait Theories
Trait theory, similar to Great Man Theory, is based on the assumption that
people inherit or acquire certain qualities, characteristics, and traits that enable
them to be better suited to lead. Trait theories often identify particular personal-
ity or behavioral characteristics shared by leaders. One of the challenges to this
theory is the presumption that for an individual to have the characteristics asso-
ciated with leadership is not enough, in itself, to create a leader. In other words,
simply because a person has these qualities, that alone will not be a predictor of
leadership ability. For example, there will be individuals with leadership char-
acteristics as defined by this theory; however, for many reasons, they may never
excel in leadership roles.
Contingency Theories
Contingency theories of leadership are dynamic and focus on variables related
to the environment that might determine which particular style of leadership
is best suited for the situation. According to this theory, no leadership style is
best in all situations. Success in leading depends upon the aggregate impact of
a number of variables, including the environment, leadership style, qualities of
the followers, and aspects of the situation.
Situational Theories
Situational theories propose that there is no optimal style of leadership; rather,
leaders choose the best course of action based upon situational variables.
Additionally, the premise of this perspective is that leadership is task-relevant
and the best approaches for each situation will depend on the individual job
requirements, the leader, and those being influenced.
Behavioral Theories
Behavioral theories of leadership are based upon the belief that great leaders
are made, not born. According to this theory, people can
learn
to become lead-
ers through experience, teaching, and observation. Leaders are made through a
series of experiences, knowledge, and opportunities that lead to “conditioned
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