Question

Outline the similarities and differences between the trait and behavioral approaches to leadership. Looking back on both schools of thought, what conclusions can now be drawn about the effectiveness of each?

Answer 1

Differences between trait and behavioral approach are as per below.

Trait approach stresses on the concept that leaders are born and they have certain inner qualities, i.e. confidence, different approach than masses, attitude, go-getter, etc. whereas according to behavioral approach leaders are made and can be trained for the necessary skills required to executive certain tasks and leaders are not born and no one is superior than other and anybody can be made leader by imparting certain kind of skills, training as per the requirement of the organization.

Similarities between trait and behavioral approach.

Both trait and behavioral approach sees the leader who has certain specific qualities and approaches which they show in executing the organizational task  and guides his/her team for what to do and what not to do for fulfilling the desired action/task/goal.

Trait theory assumes these are in-born qualities whereas behaviorism theory thinks that these qualities can be learned and developed.

Conclusion: Behaviorism approach is more scientific in nature which stresses on continuous training and learning in order to make leaders for executing certain task/goal of the organization and leaders should demonstrate these qualities while executing their task and trait theorists believes these traits are in-born qualities but does not stress on continuous training for enhancing the skills for continuously performing and achieving the given organizational targets.