Leadership

Question 1

Explain what is meant by the term ‘leadership’

Answer 1

Leadership can be seen as a behavioural process that influences individuals and groups towards set goals. Leaders ensure player satisfaction while steering the individual or group towards success.

Question 2

Describe the qualities of an effective leader

Answer 2

Vision
Ambition
Motivation
Charisma
Experience
Empathy and understanding
Communication skills
Decision making skills

Question 3

Identify the three main leader characteristics

Answer 3

1. Task Orientated or Autocratic Leaders
2. Social/Person Orientated Leaders or Democratic Leaders
3. Laissez-Faire Leaders

Question 4

Outline the key features of Autocratic Leaders

Answer 4

Autocratic leaders tend to make all the decisions and are motivated to complete the task as quickly as possible. This leadership style does not take into account the opinions or preferences of the group. They will not delegate responsibility. This style of leadership is best for large groups or in dangerous situations and is most effective in both highly favourable and highly unfavourable situations.

Question 5

Outline the key features of Democratic Leaders

Answer 5

A democratic leader will will share the decisions with the group. They believe in consultation and developing relationships. The belief is that by giving ownership the group will work harder. This style would be more effective where there are no time constraints and personal support may be required and in moderately favourable situations.

Question 6

Outline the key features of Laissez-faire Leaders

Answer 6

A laissez-faire leader will stand aside and allow the group to make their own independent decisions. This style can happen inadvertently if there is inadequate leadership and a loss of group direction.

Question 7

Describe the differences between a ‘favourable’ and ‘unfavourable’ situation

Answer 7

A highly favourable situation occurs when the leaders position is strong, the task is simple with a clear structure and warm group and leader relations.
A highly unfavourable situation occurs when leaders position is weak, task is complex with a vague structure and hostile group and leader relations.

Question 8

Explain the difference between an ‘emergent’ and a ‘prescribed’ leader.

Answer 8

An EMERGENT leader already belongs to the group and is readily accepted by the group, possibly through a voting system.
A PRESCRIBED leader is selected from outside the group and is an external appointment.
There are advantages and disadvantages to each type of leader.

Question 9

Describe the ‘Multi-dimensional model of of leadership’ Chelladurai (1978)

Answer 9

Chelladurai identified three characteristics that affect a leaders behaviour (antecedents) - situational characteristics, leader characteristics and member characteristics.
Next Chelladurai recognised three types of leader behaviour that could occur - required behaviour, actual behaviour and preferred behaviour.
The consequence of these factors lead to group performance and group satisfaction.