Week One Leadership Approaches
LDR 531
February 17, 2013
Dr. Pat

Abstract
Leadership can have several definitions. Researchers can take many different approaches to studying leadership and leadership styles. Indicators can be examined to determine the effectiveness of leaders and potential leaders. It can be argued that leaders are not “born”; they are trained and taught skill sets that develop their leadership style. Leadership approaches are classified into the following five approaches: the trait approach, the behavior approach, the power-influence approach, the situational approach, and the integrative approach. I believe the behavior approach may be a better suited approach for companies like the one I worked at for eight years.

Table of Contents

Introduction 4 Research 4 Behavioral Approach 4 Workplace 5
Pros and Cons.................................................................................................................................6
Conclusion......................................................................................................................................6
Reference........................................................................................................................................8

Week One
Leadership can be defined many ways. One way to define it is; Leadership is “the behavior of an individual . . . directing the activities of a group toward a shared goal.” (Hemphill
& Coons, 1957, pg. 7) Most definitions of leadership involve the idea of providing guidance and structure to individuals or groups. Influence plays a major role in leadership. Leadership requires a combination of knowledge and skills. Good leaders develop through a never-ending process of self-study, education, training, and experience (Jago, 1982). Leadership approaches can be
studied