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Leadership Theories: Trait vs Behavior Theory
Megan Vance
Overview
This video contrasts two major leadership theories: Trait Theory and Behavior Theory. Trait Theory, also known as the "Great Man Theory," posits that leaders are born with innate qualities like gender, age, or race that predetermine their leadership potential. In contrast, Behavior Theory, which emerged later, suggests that leadership is not about inherent traits but about learned behaviors such as listening, helping others, and taking responsibility. The video highlights that Behavior Theory is more inclusive and modern, emphasizing that anyone can become a leader by acquiring the necessary skills, whereas Trait Theory is more restrictive and traditional. The implications for educators are also discussed, showing how each theory influences their approach to identifying and developing potential leaders in students.
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Chapters
- Trait theory, or the "Great Man Theory," suggests leaders are born with specific, innate qualities.
- These predetermined traits, such as gender, age, or race, determine an individual's leadership potential.
- If someone lacks these inherent traits, they are considered less likely to become a leader.
Understanding Trait Theory helps recognize historical perspectives on leadership that viewed leaders as exceptional individuals destined for greatness, often based on inherent characteristics.
Historically, many US presidents shared similar traits like being white males over 45 and in good health, which aligns with the suggestions of Trait Theory.
- Behavior Theory, gaining traction in the 1940s, proposes that leadership is based on learned behaviors, not innate traits.
- Key leadership behaviors include actions like helping others, active listening, and accepting responsibility.
- These behaviors can be acquired through learning and practice, meaning anyone can develop leadership skills.
Behavior Theory offers a more empowering perspective by suggesting that leadership is a skill that can be developed, making it accessible to a wider range of individuals.
A leader might demonstrate learned behaviors by actively listening to team members' concerns, offering support, and taking ownership of project outcomes.
- Both theories agree that certain criteria define a leader, but they differ on the nature of these criteria.
- Trait Theory is traditional and restrictive, limiting leadership to those born with specific traits.
- Behavior Theory is modern and inclusive, suggesting leadership is achievable through learned actions.
- The historical view of leadership has evolved from the rigid criteria of Trait Theory to the more democratic approach of Behavior Theory.
Recognizing the differences between these theories is crucial for understanding how our beliefs about leadership influence our expectations and opportunities for aspiring leaders.
While Trait Theory might imply only certain demographics can lead, Behavior Theory allows for anyone to develop leadership qualities regardless of their background.
- Educators supporting Trait Theory might believe only a select few students possess leadership potential based on inherent qualities.
- This perspective can lead educators to not actively try to develop leadership in all students.
- Educators supporting Behavior Theory see leadership as teachable and are motivated to help all students develop necessary skills.
- Behavior-focused educators actively teach skills like assertive communication and problem-solving, and may also model leadership behaviors themselves.
The leadership theory an educator adopts directly impacts their teaching philosophy and their ability to foster leadership potential in every student.
An educator who believes in Behavior Theory might design group projects specifically to teach students how to collaborate, delegate tasks, and resolve conflicts constructively.
Key takeaways
- Leadership potential is viewed differently: Trait Theory emphasizes innate qualities, while Behavior Theory focuses on learned actions.
- Behavior Theory is more democratic and inclusive, suggesting anyone can become a leader by developing specific skills.
- Trait Theory is more restrictive, implying that leadership is a gift some are born with and others are not.
- The evolution from Trait Theory to Behavior Theory reflects a societal shift towards more inclusive and merit-based views of leadership.
- An educator's chosen leadership theory significantly influences their approach to student development and their belief in the potential of all learners.
- Learned behaviors, such as effective communication and problem-solving, are central to becoming a successful leader according to Behavior Theory.
Key terms
Trait TheoryGreat Man TheoryBehavior TheoryInnate qualitiesLearned behaviorsLeadership potentialInclusive leadershipDemocratic leadership
Test your understanding
- What are the core assumptions of Trait Theory regarding the origin of leadership abilities?
- How does Behavior Theory propose that individuals can become leaders?
- Why is Behavior Theory considered more inclusive than Trait Theory?
- What are the practical implications for educators who subscribe to Trait Theory versus Behavior Theory?
- How do the historical origins of Trait Theory and Behavior Theory differ?