Trait Theory of Leadership

What is Trait Theory of Leadership?

Trait theory, also known as the “Great Man Theory,” posits that leadership is influenced by a collection of innate personality traits. It is one of the oldest leadership theories and seeks to explain the exceptional qualities leaders possess. According to this theory, leaders possess inherent personal qualities that set them apart from ordinary followers.

Researchers have identified various traits associated with effective leaders:

1. Physical Qualities: These include good health, vitality, endurance, energy, enthusiasm, and assertiveness.
2. Intellectual Qualities: High intelligence, sound judgment, the ability to teach and employ a scientific approach, decisiveness, self-awareness, ambition, and a drive for achievement.
3. Moral Qualities: Integrity, honesty, fairness, moral courage, willpower, a sense of purpose, a desire for achievement, and objectivity.
4. Social Qualities: The ability to inspire others, tact, persuasiveness, self-confidence, empathy, initiative, a deep understanding of human nature, and a positive attitude towards human relations.

Initially, it was believed that these traits were innate and inborn, leading to the notion that leaders are born and not made. However, experts later recognized that these qualities can also be developed through education, training, and experience.

Criticism of Trait Theory of Leadership

Trait theory is valuable in distinguishing leaders from followers and in designing training programs for managers at various levels. However, it has faced criticism for several reasons. 

• Firstly, no universally agreed-upon list of traits defines successful leaders, as different researchers identify different traits. 
• Additionally, some individuals who do not achieve leadership positions may possess similar traits to successful leaders. Moreover, accurately measuring traits can be challenging, making it difficult to determine the specific level of a trait required for effectiveness. 
• Furthermore, effective leadership is not solely determined by traits but is influenced by the specific leadership context, which shapes the essential traits for success. Trait theory also falls short in guiding how to develop these qualities, limiting its practical application in the business world. 
• Finally, there is no direct correlation between the level of traits and the level of success, as many individuals possessing these traits have failed as leaders.

So, trait theory suggests that leadership is influenced by a set of innate personal traits that differentiate leaders from followers. However, the theory has limitations and has faced criticism for its lack of universality, difficulties in measurement, neglect of the leadership context, absence of guidance for development, and the absence of a direct correlation between traits and success.