Leadership and Group Processes Flashcards
what are the 4 approaches to studying leadership?
- Trait
- Behavioral
- Situational
- Transformational
What is the basis of the trait approach?
To be a great leader you have to have certain traits
Stable personality characteristics predispose a person to become a leader - traits present at birth
What are the traits of a great leader?
- Intelligence
- Assertiveness
- Independence
- Self- confidence
Limitations for the trait approach
- Limited evidence that traits alone cause great leaders
- No personality profile has been found that matches all great leaders
- Characteristics are useful in leadership roles, but not essential
What is the basis of the behavioural approach?
leadership
The behaviours and actions is what makes a great leader
Anyone can be a leader by learning these behaviours
Two components of leadership
Behaviour approach
- Consideration - building trust and rapport, two-way communication, concern for group members
- Initiating Structure - Planning, assigning roles, motivation
Limitations for the behavioural apprach
- No one set of personality characteristics can ensure successful leadership.
- Certain leadership styles fit certain situations.
- Leaders can adapt their styles to the demands of the situation
Just because you are a great leader in one situation, context and period of time, it does not mean you will always be a great leader in all situations
What is the basis of the situational approach?
leadership
Leadership depends more on the characteristics of the situation rather than certain traits
Leaders have to adapt and change for specific situations
Blanchard (1993): Model of situational leadership
4 types of leadership behaviours:
1. Delegating - low support and directive behaviour
2. Supporting - high support, low DB
3. Coaching - high support and DB
4. Directing - low support, high DB
Leadership style should change based on the needs of the group or situation
Transactional leadership
Leadership using transactions - use of rewards and punishment
Transformational leadership
Leadership that causes positive change by using inspiration and motivation
Leaders rely on a shared vision to create change
4 components of transformational leadership
- Idealised influence - Be a role model
- Inspirational motivation - Leader motivates followers
- Intellectual stimulation - Help stimulate and nurture thinking process and provide oppurtunities for reflection and debate
- Individualised consideration - personal connection for followers (1-1 communication)
Often have charisma as well
What is a leader?
A leader is defined by who they are (personal) and the responsibilities and tasks they fufil (position)
They influence a group of individuals to achieve a common goal
Affective leadership
Maintaining a group and good relations among the members
Instrumental leadership
Advancing a group in the performance of a common objective or task