What Kind of Leader Are You?

There are a number of different theories to explain how people become leaders.
Photo courtesy Sanja Gjenero

What qualities and characteristics make a great leader? According to one study, conscientiousness, intellignce and assertiveness are strengths, but the ability to adapt to each unique situation is also essential. One of the best-known leadership studies was conducted in 1939 and set out to identify different styles of leadership. While further research has identified more specific types of leadership, this early study was very influential and established three major leadership styles. In the study, groups of schoolchildren were assigned to one of three groups with an authoritarian, democratic or laissez-fair leader. The children were then led in an arts and crafts project. Researchers then observed the behavior of children in response to the different styles of leadership.

Just how do people become leaders? There are a number of theories that attempt to explain how people come to be leaders. Some suggest that specific characteristics make people great leaders, while other suggest that situational factors play a major role. Despite the wide variety of leadership theories, most can be categorized under one of eight broad outlooks.

What type of leadership do you have? Take this leadership style quiz to learn more about your individual learning style and explore some of the major theories of leadership.