The trait approach to leadership has its roots in the early 20th century from "summary" of Leadership traits and theories. A Review by Murali Mg
The trait approach to leadership traces back its origins to the early 20th century, where researchers sought to identify the specific qualities that distinguish effective leaders from their counterparts. This era marked a shift in focus from the study of leadership as a concept to an emphasis on the individual characteristics that leaders possess. Scholars such as Thomas Carlyle and Francis Galton were among the early proponents of this approach, highlighting the importance of innate qualities such as intelligence, charisma, and assertiveness in successful leadership. The trait approach gained further momentum in the mid-20th century, particularly during World War II, when the United States military sought to identify the traits that make a good leader. Psychologists like Kurt Lewin and Ralph Stogdill conducted extensive research to uncover the key attributes associated with effective leadership, paving the way for the development of various leadership trait theories. These theories emphasized the role of personality traits, skills, and behaviors in shaping a leader's effectiveness and influence within an organization.- Such as the lack of universally applicable traits and the failure to account for situational factors, its influence on leadership theory and practice remains significant. The emphasis on individual characteristics in leadership paved the way for the emergence of other leadership theories, such as behavioral and contingency theories, which build upon the foundational insights provided by the trait approach. In essence, the trait approach to leadership serves as a cornerstone in the evolution of leadership studies, shaping our understanding of what it means to be an effective leader in today's complex and dynamic organizational landscape.
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