Running Head: Leadership Theories
Leadership Theories
March 5, 2006
Leadership Theories
Leadership is a universal phenomenon in humans and in many species of animals (Bass, 1990). It is a complex phenomenon involving the constant interaction of three essential elements: the leader, the follower, and the surrounding situation (Bass, 1990). However, Wren (1995) believed leadership consisted of four components involving leaders and followers; the relationship of influence; a common vision; and intended change.
While leadership theories present numerous challenges that allow individuals the opportunity to help create the future of leadership; the genius of leadership theories lies in the manner in which leaders see and act on their own, yet incorporating their followers’ values and motivations (Wren, 1995). From its infancy, the study of history has allowed the study of leadership to focus on thief effects leaders have on their followers.
The purpose of this paper is to discuss the evolution of leadership. The paper will present with each evolution, the authors associated; the types of models identified; and a description of the pertinent theories associated with each model. While Pfeffer suggests the definition of leadership can be ambiguous due to the many overlapping dimension created in each historical era; leadership can best be defined in the context of the kink of institution in which it has been formed (Spitzberg, 1986).
Leadership Theories
Theories of leadership attempt to explain the factors involved either in the emergence of leadership or in the nature of leadership and it consequences. Models attempt to illustrate the interplay among the variables that are conceived to be involved, and the theories define the research problems in the social sciences. Several different schools of thought have prevailed simultaneously since leadership was first studies: each being demonstrated by its place in social science research. While Burns (as cited in...