Exploring the Key Leadership Theories: From Trait to Transformational
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Offering CollegeCourseWebsiteIndian School of BusinessISB Leadership in AIVisitMITMIT Technology Leadership and InnovationVisitIndian School of BusinessISB Venture Capital and Private Equity ProgramVisitTrait Theory: The Early Foundation
One of the earliest approaches to understanding leadership was the trait theory. This theory, which emerged in the early 20th century, posited that certain inherent traits and characteristics made individuals natural leaders. Researchers believed that leaders were born, not made.
According to trait theory, leaders possess qualities like confidence, intelligence, charisma, and decisiveness. While this theory laid the groundwork for studying leadership, it had limitations. It overlooked the importance of situational factors and the idea that leadership could be developed and learned.
Behavioural Theories: Focusing on Actions
As the limitations of trait theory became evident, researchers shifted their focus to behaviours exhibited by effective leaders. Behavioral theories of leadership emerged, emphasizing what leaders did rather than who they were. Two prominent models within this category are the Ohio State Studies and the University of Michigan Studies.
The Ohio State Studies identified two key dimensions of leadership behaviour: consideration and initiating structure. Consideration refers to the leader's concern for the well-being of their followers while initiating structure relates to their organization and task-oriented behaviour. The University of Michigan Studies, on the other hand, identified two leadership styles: employee-oriented and production-oriented.
