Trait and Behavior Theories

Question: Discuss about theTrait and Behavior Theories. Answer: Difference Between Trait and Behavior Theory of Leadership The trait theory is sometimes referred to as the virtue theory by some scholars. The proposers of this theory argue that there are certain qualities that a leader must possess. They claim that one is born a leader. The trait theory also focuses on the fact that certain factors differentiate leaders from followers. The behavior theory of leadership, on the other hand, disregard the trait theory of leadership. The behavior theorists refute the idea of inherent potential. They also reject the virtues mentioned by the trait theorists. The scholars who support this theory claim that there are a set of roles or actions that a leader must take in any organizational situation (DERUE et al., 2011). They believe that leaders can be trained into making good leaders. They believe that anyone can be a leader. They, however, claim that the environment should be good for one to learn to be a leader. They should also learn good leadership skills. It is also argued that behaviorism is a democratic form of theory. Being a good leader needs training. The trait theory, however, claims that leaders are born with leadership traits. A good example is between two people born in different houses. One is born in a family of weak people while one is born into a strong-willed family. From the two theories, it can be argued that one will become a better leader than the other. Based on the arguments made by the scholars, I tend to believe that the two theories are valid. How Organizations can help in Developing Effective Leaders Organizations can help and develop good leaders. A good example of a situation where organizations can help is in the business setting. The management in many cases can analyze the actions and the decisions that are made by their employees (Goff, 2003). Their aim can be to notice the employees who depict leadership potentials. These groups of employees are then promoted and trained with the aim of reaping the best from their capabilities. References Derue, D, Nahrgang, J, Wellman, N, Humphrey, S 2011, 'Trait And Behavioral Theories Of Leadership: An Integration And Meta-Analytic Test Of Their Relative Validity', Personnel Psychology, 64, 1, pp. 7-52, Goff, DG 2003, 'What Do We Know about Good Community College Leaders: A Study in Leadership Trait Theory and Behavioral Leadership Theory'