6 Leadership Theories: The Traits of Different Leadership Styles

Leadership theories are overarching, well-researched, and reasonable assumptions about what makes a person a good leader. Theorists study different leadership styles and individual leaders to arrive at general hypotheses on the subject. Their leadership studies land on a panoply of differing conclusions, so studying a wide berth of these theories can help you form your own opinions.

There are many different types of leaders, so it makes sense that there are also many different types of leadership theories. Here are just six:

1. 1. The behavioral theory of leadership: The central premise of this leadership model is that anyone and everyone can hone effective leadership skills by mimicking leader behavior. Rather than assuming people are innately born for leadership roles, behavioral leadership theory insists anyone can be a leader so long as they behave the way other leaders do.
2. 2. The contingency theory of leadership: Sometimes called situational leadership theory, this model suggests different leadership styles are necessary for different situations. If you adhere to situational theory, you assume the best leaders can adapt their style based on what any given contingency calls for. For instance, situational leaders should be able to transition seamlessly between laissez-faire and hands-on approaches depending on what their team members or employees most need in any specific circumstance.
3. 3. The great man theory of leadership: Also known as the trait theory of leadership, the great man theory asserts that great leaders are born with all the right personality traits to attain position, power, and authority. It states that leadership abilities are yours from birth or not—and that’s just the way it is. Detractors of this theory believe it’s too autocratic in execution and unrealistic in its basic assumptions.
4. 4. The relationship theory of leadership: This participative leadership style revolves around treating so-called subordinates as equal team members essential to the decision-making process. As such, it’s sometimes known as servant leadership. Relationship theory emphasizes a collaborative work environment, diplomatic communication skills, and democratic leadership overall. Under these assumptions, delegating to more competent group members is a surer sign of leadership than insisting on completing tasks yourself.
5. 5. The transactional theory of leadership: This style of leadership—also known as management theory—is task-oriented and operates off the premise that effective leaders should treat their employees and team members transactionally. A transactional leadership approach means taking an authoritatively managerial stance by rewarding when someone meets a goal and penalizing when someone doesn’t. Some view this aspect of transactional exchange theory as counterproductive, while proponents say it’s tough but still a form of effective leadership.
6. 6. The transformational theory of leadership: Group performance is paramount in transformational leadership theory. Transformational leaders view themselves as the vehicle by which stakeholders and team members can pursue and enact a necessary change. Generally, transformational leadership focuses on achieving this goal through influence and inspiration rather than outright coercion.

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