The different leadership theories describe the different leadership styles that many people may demonstrate in their working environments, experience while
working on a project team or exhibit as they manage a project. According to Burke and Barron (2014), “Leadership theories are developed to inform our
understanding of leadership and to improve leadership skills and behaviors” (p. 81).
The Great Person theory is based on the idea that a good leader is born, and that leadership was not necessarily a learned skill. The idea that a person is
fundamentally born knowing how to lead does seem a little extreme, but the Trait theories and Behavioral theories are extensions of Great Person theory; these
theories support the concept that people can learn from a “born leader.” Additionally, these theories further expand on the concept of learning leadership and
can support and develop the leadership traits a person may have naturally. The Behavioral theories have more focus on the actions and values of a leader; this
theory is divided into the following classifications: Authoritative or Autocratic leadership style, Participative or Democratic leadership style, and
Laissez-Faire leadership style. The Contingency and Situational theories suggest that leadership style or behavior is variable and that a leader and their
style of leadership can be chosen or is dictated by the environment or situation. The Transactional theory is a leadership style that is based on an approach
of transactions or directed tasks between manager and subordinate.
Burke, R. & Barron, S. (2014). Project management leadership: Building creative teams (2nd ed.). Hoboken, NJ: John Wiley & Sons.