What Leadership Means

1765 Words4 Pages
bulb-icon

Recommended: Personality traits and leadership styles

What Leadership Means Leadership is 'the behaviour of an individual when he is directing the activities of a group towards a shared goal'. (Hemphill and Coons, 1957, p.7) A leader is interpreted as someone who sets direction in an effort and influences people to follow that direction. How they set that direction and influence people depends on a variety of factors. To really comprehend the 'territory' of leadership, one should briefly scan some of the major theories, notice various styles of leadership and review some of the suggested traits and characteristics that leaders should have. There are many leadership theories. Arthur G. Jago (1982) proposed a framework that organizes leadership theories based on each theory's focus and approach. "Focus" refers to whether leadership is viewed as a set of traits or as a set of actions. Focus on Traits: Theories with such a focus see leaders as having certain innate or inherent personality traits that distinguish them from non-leaders. These personality traits are supposed to be relatively stable and enduring. Focus on Behaviour: Theories with this type of focus see leadership as observable actions of the leader instead of personality traits. "Approach" is concerned with whether a particular theory or model of leadership takes a universal or a contingent perspective. Universal Approach: This approach believes that there is a universal formula of traits or behaviour for an effective leader. In other words, the universal approach assumes that there is "one best way" to lead in all situations. Contingent Approach: Contrary to the universal approach, the contingent approach does not believe the "one best way" formula. It believes that effective leadership depends on the specific situation. I am going to analyse two theories in detail, which according to me appear contradictory are Blake and Mouton?s Managerial Grid Theory (1978) under the head behaviour theories and Fiedler?s Contingency theories under the head contingencies theory. Behavioural Theories For over 20 years, a major thrust in leadership research has focused on the various behavioural patterns or styles used by different leaders and the functions fulfilled by these individuals. This research examined the impact that leadership behaviour had on the performance and satisfaction of followers. From... ... middle of paper ... ... totally group or task-oriented; group members and the situation itself, all influence a leaders effectiveness. The leader needs to be aware of his own behaviour and influence on others, individual differences of group members, group characteristics, task structure, environmental and situational variables, and adjust his leadership style accordingly. Leadership needs to be adaptive. Organizations have changed over the past several decades with regard to the structuring of work methods and processes. Moving away from the traditional hierarchical design, most organizations are developing flatter, leaner structures that support a more empowered, team-based workforce. The nature of leadership has also changed significantly over time. References Gary A. Yukl, (2002) Leadership In Organizations, Prentice-Hall International Edition, 2nd Edition, Peter L. Wright, (1996) Managerial Leadership, Routledge, 1st Edition, Bittel L. R., The McGraw-Hill 36 ?hour Management Course, (McGraw-Hill, 1989), Fred E. Fiedler, (1987), A Theory Of Leadership Effectiveness, McGraw-Hill, 1st Edition Blake, R. R. and Mouton, J. S. (1978) The New Managerial Grid, Houston TX

Show More
Related

  • The Pros And Cons Of Euthanasia

    647 Words  | 2 Pages

    Euthanasia has been a very polemic subject in American society. Its objective is to conclude the life of a person at their own request, a family member, or by the determination of a health care professional to avoid unnecessary suffering. There is a lot of moral and ethics involved in euthanasia, exist a big difference between provoke death and allow death. The first one rejects life, the second one accepts its natural end. Every single intentional act of provoke the death of a person without consent is opposed to ethics and is punishable by law. One of the biggest moral controversies in the XXI century is the fact that some people agree in the autonomy humans have to determine the moment of death. The moral and legal implications are huge and the practical benefits are also enormous. This is a touchy and controversial issue and my goal on writing this paper is to remain on favor of euthanasia. I will elaborate later on my reasons to believe and support euthanasia, but first let’s examine the historical perspective of this moral issue.

    Read More

  • Euthanasia: Should Be Illegal in All 50 States

    1563 Words  | 4 Pages

    Today, there is a large debate over the situation and consequences of euthanasia. Euthanasia is the act of ending a human’s life by lethal injection or the stoppage of medication, or medical treatment. It has been denied by most of today’s population and is illegal in the fifty states of the United States. Usually, those who undergo this treatment have a disease or an “unbearable” pain somewhere in the body or the mind. Since there are ways, other than ending life, to stop pain caused by illness or depression, euthanasia is immoral, a disgrace to humanity, according to the Hippocratic Oath, and should be illegal throughout the United States.

    Read More

  • The Pros And Cons Of Euthanasia

    1064 Words  | 3 Pages

    When it comes to the topic of euthanasia the four ethical goals of health care providers are in direct conflict with one another. An argument can be made that both permitting and preventing euthanasia violates one of those four principles which are as follows: beneficence, non-maleficence, autonomy, and justice. Perhaps the biggest conflict is between the principles of autonomy and non-maleficence. When it comes to PAS we cannot allow our patients to act autonomously while at the same time making sure to do no harm. In addition the Hippocratic Oath serves as a large roadblock on the way to legalizing PAS. The Hippocratic Oath is an oath taken by healthcare providers at the beginning of practice outlining obligations and proper conduct of providers. The Hippocratic Oath is based on the maxim “do no harm” and more specifically it states “neither will I administer a poison to anybody when asked to do so, nor will I suggest such a course”. American medicine traditionally succumbs to this oath and has therefore made PAS illegal. It is important to note, however, that this Oath was written thousands of years ago and it may need to be revised in the face of both e...

    Read More

  • The Pros And Cons Of Euthanasia

    871 Words  | 2 Pages

    Even though euthanasia is another concept of murder, many states such as, Washing DC, California, Colorado, Oregon, Vermont, and Washington made it legal for people to shed blood. Although, most people assume that putting an end to ones life is permissible, But the act of promoting to kill another is morally in wrong. Many would think that it is necessary to end ones life, to put an end their suffering. When a person choices to perish, it is because of expenses, suffering from mental illness, and the loss of

    Read More

  • What Is The Theme Of Corruption In The Great Gatsby

    910 Words  | 2 Pages

    To begin with, Tom Buchanan and Jay Gatsby are both corrupt individuals. Tom Buchanan’s personality represents the higher social class of America in the 1920s. Notably, when Nick Carraway goes to visit the Buchanan family, Tom bluntly explains to Nick, “I’ve got a nice place here, showing off his opulent estate”(7). Tom is

    Read More

  • Leadership: The Strengths And Definition Of Leadership

    724 Words  | 2 Pages

    Leadership is derived from the Latin word laedere, which roughly translates as “to show the way” and if someone were to look it up in the dictionary, it would come up as “the position of a leader, the ability to lead, and direction.” However, for some this word can be arguable because everyone thinks differently. Leadership or leader itslef can be described or defined as someone promoting good character, a trustworthy person as well as a person who has dedication and takes responsibility for not only him or herself but also takes responsibility for the people surrounding them.

    Read More

  • Importance Of Leadership In Leadership

    1211 Words  | 3 Pages

    Leadership is a broad term with a powerful and diverse meaning. Found in every profession, school setting, and workplace, proves its vital and valued role. Working in the future as a health care professional evokes a strong sense of understanding to provide effective leadership. Interdisciplinary health teams more than ever compromise a large sector of health care, requiring the upmost standards of quality in leadership to assume these positions of power. From this course I set for myself a great responsibility to learn, grow, and build upon my skills in becoming an appreciated, and essential part when in the role or position of a leader. In addition I want to learn how to be comfortable in a leadership position, as it is often rarely proclaimed in today’s society. Breaking down what being a leader truly means, instead of an unattainable picture of world change, is

    Read More

  • The Importance Of Leadership In Leadership

    1107 Words  | 3 Pages

    1. Purpose. Leaders come in different measures for they have varying qualities or traits that may consist of being responsible if it sometimes means pissing people off; not being afraid to challenge the pros, even in their own backyard; or not knowing what they can get away with until they try. Leaders are the driving force of any organization or society in the world. Leaders, while admired due to their works and can propel the people towards a common goal based on facts. Leaders act as the motivators for they give the followers energy to move towards a particular objective. Leaders are at the forefront of the activities. Admired leaders receive positive and negative critiques on their character. Sideshows give leaders the chance to

    Read More

  • Lidl Leadership Analysis

    969 Words  | 2 Pages

    The Trait Theory points out that there is a certain type of person making a good leader, with the decisive factor being: having or not having distinctive qualities of being a leader. Despite that, being an effective leader can still be a challenge. External and internal influences impact the effectiveness of the program and must be considered in order to succeed. Which leads us to the Behavioural Theory, thinking of what a good leader actually does. Kurt Lewin developed three leadership types, such as the autocratic leader who is a maker, someone who makes decisions without consultation with others.

    Read More

  • Euthanasia Should Be Legal

    2051 Words  | 5 Pages

    Euthanasia has been an ongoing debate for many years. Everyone has an opinion on why euthanasia should or should not be allowed but, it is as simple as having the choice to die with dignity. If a patient wishes to end his or her life before a disease takes away their quality of life, then the patient should have the option of euthanasia. Although, American society considers euthanasia to be morally wrong euthanasia should be considered respecting a loved one’s wishes. To understand euthanasia, it is important to know the rights humans have at the end of life, that there are acts of passive euthanasia already in practice, and the beneficial aspects.

    Read More

  • The Pros And Cons Of Euthanasia

    1752 Words  | 4 Pages

    ...ncurable diseases or accidents like Dax Cowart where the person’s life after would never be the same or could never be what the individual imagined their life to be, patients should have the option to die a painless way. . The United States of America is becoming more accepting of this alternative to painful treatments that patients in this state would receive. With the removal of “The Appropriate Ends” area from the Hippocratic oath, it is clear that the U.S. is making a big push toward legalizing euthanasia. Legalizing euthanasia will open another opportunity for suffering patients, because regardless of whether or not euthanasia is an option, suicidal patients will find a way to die and many times this is more brutal and painful than euthanasia. With the hoippocratic oath taking a more modern view on healthcare, euthanasia is becoming a morally right thing to do.

    Read More

  • The Importance Of Leadership In Leadership

    1454 Words  | 3 Pages

    Leaders have a responsibility to ensure that the organization is running effectively. In addition, the decisions that are made should be in the best interest of the organization, therefore, the leader should ensure that the decisions are moving the organization closer to its vision. According to Manning and Curtis (2015), there are 10 qualities that influence the leadership process: Vision, Ability, Enthusiasm, Stability, Concern for others, Self-confidence, Persistence, Vitality, Charisma, and Integrity. Leaders have to consider these 10 qualities when making effective decisions about the organization. Conversely, when these qualities do not influence the decision-making process for leaders, the organizational leader is not possessing

    Read More

  • Thoughts On Leadership: My Personal Definition Of Leadership

    2626 Words  | 6 Pages

    Many individuals are ‘guilty as charged’, regarding the use of traditional leadership methods. As a Theory X leader, many professions are conditioned to maintain order and control through direct leadership. However, as they begin to mature in their leadership roles, the paradigm may begin to shift. As leaders provide employees the opportunity to project input into major concerns/changes that affect them as a whole, they will see a major organizational shift. Hopefully this change will lead to the learning organization Senge envisioned as the leading concept for U.S. industries in the future.

    Read More

  • The Pros And Cons Of Active Euthanasia

    917 Words  | 2 Pages

    Euthanasia has always been a very controversial topic amongst doctors and civilians. Many claim that active euthanasia is wrong no matter what the reason, while others see it as a merciful way for the patient to die. Some would say that passive euthanasia is the morally right thing to do, but others see it as unnecessary pain and suffering for the patient. James Rachels provides a strong argument on why active euthanasia should be allowed and explains the morality of “killing and letting die”

    Read More

  • My Effective Leadership: My Definition Of Leadership

    1111 Words  | 3 Pages

    My definition of leadership is being able to follow your ambitions and desires without worrying about any consequences. Supporting this statement would be because managers and leaders have similar qualities such as being responsible, flexible, and have good communication. Though the difference between them is that managers tend to be consistent and keep things in order without any changes but a leader tend to create for the future and motivate others to accomplish what is set out for the future. In order for this to be accomplished the leader must have great motive and purpose in what they are doing. This means you have to take initiative to make changes instead of be consistent and stay the same, when staying consistent that means the leader is falling into the management category.

    Read More

More about What Leadership Means

Open Document