What is the Difference Between Trait and Behavioral Theories of Leadership?

The main difference between trait and behavioral theories of leadership lies in the process of becoming a leader. Trait theories suggest that leaders are born with certain inherent qualities, while behavioral theories argue that leadership can be learned and developed through training and skills.

Trait theories of leadership, also known as the virtue theory of leadership, focus on the personal characteristics of leaders, such as honesty, intelligence, and appearance. These traits are often inborn and manifest themselves in the "born leader" that cannot be replicated. According to trait theory, not everyone can be a leader, as leadership skills are naturally part of the person's personality from birth.

On the other hand, behavioral theories of leadership emphasize that leaders can be made, not just born. These theories believe that becoming a leader is just a matter of proper training, developing leadership qualities, and fostering the necessary skills in an individual. In the behavioral leadership theory, people can only become leaders after learning leadership skills.

In summary, the key difference between trait and behavioral theories of leadership is the belief in whether leaders are born or made:

• Trait Theories: Leaders are born with certain inherent qualities that make them natural leaders.
• Behavioral Theories: Leaders can be made through proper training, skills development, and experience.

Both theories, however, agree on the importance of certain actions, traits, or behaviors in effective leadership.

Comparative Table: Trait vs Behavioral Theories of Leadership

The main difference between trait and behavioral theories of leadership lies in the sources of leadership qualities. Trait theory posits that leaders have inborn traits, making them naturally suited for leadership roles, while behavioral theory suggests that leadership is a matter of proper training and development of specific actions or behaviors. Here is a table summarizing the differences between the two theories:

Despite their differences, both theories agree on the types of actions or behaviors that effective leaders must be capable of. The choice between these two theories depends on whether one believes that leaders are born with innate qualities or can be developed through proper training and experience.