Exam 1: Trait Theory: Description, Analysis, and Use

Given the state of flux and change or their different cultures and differing needs, modern organisations find it impossible to predict the future environment. Yet Trait Theory suggests that it asks us to focus upon the personality of the leader, regardless of the circumstance. How best might Trait Theory be used in modern organisations?

Within trait theory, how does the identification of traits relate to leadership behaviour?

Derailing and the Dark Side of Traits recognises that there are traits that may act as disablers to leadership. Is it true that Emotional instability enables leadership success?

Galton (1869) and Carlyle (1849) both paint a similar picture of the Great Man: 'All things that we see standing accomplished in the world are properly the outer material result, the practical realization and embodiment, of Thoughts that dwelt in the Great Men sent into the world' (Carlyle 1849:1). Great Man theory has historically been considered important but what argument has contributed to its decline?

Competency Frameworks describe the personality and characteristics associated with a 'model' recruit.

The 'Big Five Model', also known as OCEAN or CANOE considers possible behavioural characteristics based upon 5 trait factors, of which Neuroticism features.

Type theory means we can post individuals into certain categories and make assumptions about their likely response to a given stimulus. Type theory enables researchers to classify individuals using models such as The Myers-Briggs approach. What best explains the basis of the model in terms of the determination of an individual?

A trait is a quality or attribute that appears to mean that a leader who is successful in one situation could lead in all other situations. Is this the definition of a trait?

Trait theorists have had historical prominence in the understanding of leadership. Trait theorists believe that an individual's behaviour can be explained by an understanding of their traits What is the basis of trait theory in terms of the indication of individual's actions?

The Hogan Development Survey is a psychometric tool that aims to 'measure' individuals against a set of scales with the aim of predicting future leadership performance. It seeks to uncover dark 'negative' traits-or at least traits that may be counterproductive in terms of accessing leadership. Which best describes the indicator 'Leisurely' as a Leadership trait identified by the tool?