Trait Theory Of Leadership

Trait Theory

Trait Theory says that an efficient leader can be identified through the recognition of his or her traits. Traits are the personal characteristic that possess by a leader, such as intelligence, knowledge, values, ideas, self-confidence, and attire or appearance (Daft, 2008). Trait theory is a “virtual theory” of leadership. It begins with the idea that there are specific virtues a leader must have. These are usually inborn traits, manifesting themselves in the “born leader” that cannot help but take control and guide situations. Trait theory describes that there is a certain set of basic personality markers that set leaders apart from followers. In a business following this model, management is always scanning and analyzing the

However, as there had been more researchers explored the studies of leadership theories, more research had been done on this theory in recently years (Penn, 2008). Since studies about straits theory was getting more popular, more research can be done on other personal traits that a leaders possess such as physical and social characteristic so that a more specific and appropriate trait of an effective leader can be develop. According to Daft (2008), there were some studies of this theory showed that same kind of personal characteristic may not suitable for every situation as the environment is always changing.

• Leader

• Characteristics or Traits

• Intelligence Values Self- confidence Appearance

This approach was based on the scheme that is individuality and personal intrinsic worth that distinguish successful leader form everyone else. In 1994, Yukl conducted research on traits and skills and linked to organizational effectiveness (Introduction to educational leadership & organizational behavior: theory into practice, Patti L. Chance, Edward W. Chance,Eye on Education, 2002,page.87). These were-

• Energy and pressure patience

• Self-possession

• Inner locus of

Behaviorism is a “trait” ,it says that leaders must show certain common personality markers or habits of mind, but it argues that these can be elicited from anyone at any time, and that no one person has more potential than another.

Differences

Behaviorism is a more “democratic” kind of theory. Being a leader, according to the behaviorist school of thought, is just a matter of proper training, while trait theory holds that a leader must have certain inherent, innate qualities. Take, for example, two people. One born in the house of a family that is weak willed and is known for letting people take advantage of them. Another born in a house filled with powerful executives and strong commanders and those commonly called “born leaders.” Theoretically, the person from the former house will develop the habits of servility, while the second person will develop the habits of assertiveness. According to behaviorism, had their upbringings been switched, they each would have developed differently, so either is equally likely to be a good leader with proper