Understanding the Trait Theory of Leadership: Insights from the 1930s and 1940s

Explore the trait theory of leadership from the 1930s and 1940s, focusing on innate characteristics of effective leaders.

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Trait theory of leadership in the 1930s and 1940s posited that effective leaders possess specific inherent traits such as intelligence, charisma, and decisiveness. This theory emphasized that these personality characteristics were innate rather than acquired, suggesting that leaders are born, not made. The focus was on identifying these traits to differentiate leaders from non-leaders, influencing both leadership selection and development practices during that period.

FAQs & Answers

  1. What are the key traits identified in the trait theory of leadership? Key traits include intelligence, charisma, decisiveness, and other inherent personality characteristics.
  2. How did trait theory influence leadership selection? Trait theory emphasized identifying inherent traits to differentiate effective leaders from non-leaders, impacting selection practices.
  3. Is leadership a born trait or can it be developed? According to trait theory, leaders are considered to be 'born' with specific traits rather than made through experience.
  4. How does trait theory compare to other leadership theories? Trait theory focuses on innate characteristics, while other theories may emphasize learned behaviors or situational contexts.

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