In this article, we have discussed Theories of Leadership for the UGC NET Exam. It will help you gain conceptual clarity about the important Leadership Theories.

UGC NET is a national-level exam, conducted by UGC twice in a year (June and December) for JRF and Assistant Professor positions. So, the candidates must have a clear understanding of the Theories of Leadership if they are preparing for the upcoming exam for Commerce subjects.

Study Notes on Theories of Leadership Part 1 for UGC NET 2023

Get here brief details on Theories of Leadership, including the definition, concepts, types and more.

What are Leadership Theories?

In short, Leadership is mainly an activity, in which a leader always tries to influence his followers for the betterment of an organization. However, some authors emphasize on the personal attitude as well as the traits of a leader. But some also focus on the actual behaviour of the leader, based on the concerning situation; it means how he or she is acting to manage that situation to get a positive outcome.

In the section below, we have listed 4 main theories of leadership along with their related traits.

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What are the Theories of Leadership?

The main Leadership theories are discussed as follows:

Trait Approach

It is considered as the earliest leadership notion in the World and was popular in the eras of 1930-1950. According to the Trait approach, in this leadership theory, individuals who are leaders are psychologically more suited to demonstrate better judgement and to engage themselves in social activities. It cannot be learned, as should be inborn among the personalities.

Below is the list of traits that every leader should possess.

• Intelligence – The leader should have the ability to think logically and scientifically, analyse accurately and interpret clearly and precisely the problems before them.
• Physiological factors – Height, weight, physique, health, and appearance all significantly affect a leader’s success and personality.
• Emotional Stability – The leader must act consistently and have good anger management skills.
• Intense Inner motivational drive – Leaders should continuously strive to accomplish their objectives.
• Human relations attitude – Leaders should always work to build social rapport with others.
• Vision and foresight – A effective leader should be able to foresee trends in the future and create policies and actions based on such trends.
• Empathy – An effective leader should be able to see things or situations from other people’s perspectives.

Behavioural Approach 

According to this perspective, leadership entails a relationship between a leader and his subordinates in which the behaviour of the leader towards them is the most crucial factor.

There are some criticisms which are included in this theory.

• The situational variable is not taken into account in this method. The appropriate style may change based on the circumstances.
• The time component is not taken into account in this method. A given behaviour could be OK at one moment but inappropriate at another.

Two important Leadership theories for the behavioural approach are as follows:

1. Ohio State University Studies

The Ohio State University Bureau of Research has undertaken studies to pinpoint key aspects of leadership and look at how a leader’s actions affect the attitudes and behaviours of their workforce.

• Building relationships with group members is what the initiating structure refers to as the leader’s behaviour.
• Consideration: The attitude characterised by friendliness, respect, trust, and supportiveness, among other traits.

2. Michigan Studies

A study was undertaken by the University of Michigan’s Institute of Social Research to determine the various leadership behaviours that increase group performance and satisfaction.

Although both leadership philosophies resulted in higher output, the production-centred approach was marginally superior. Yet, the production-centred approach raised turnover and absenteeism while lowering employee satisfaction.

Charismatic Leadership Theories

A leadership skill or trait known as charisma has the power to persuade people to act decisively and consistently. A sort of influence known as charismatic leadership depends on the charisma of the leader. According to research, charismatic leadership is positively correlated with excellent performance and follower happiness.

Leader-Member Exchange

It is also known as Vertical Dyad Linkage Theory. According to this belief, leaders do not treat their subordinates fairly or equitably.

On the other hand, leaders maintain a distance from members of the outgroup. Leaders build tight interpersonal relationships with members of the ingroup.