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The Behavioral and Situational Approaches
While acknowledging the contributions of other academics studying leadership, such as
Emmanuel Mango, (2018), who notes that "the leadership field is overcrowded with theories,"
people can give of themselves to others via leadership, especially through deeds of influence. As
defined by Northouse in his introduction to his book, “Leadership is a process whereby an
individual influences a group of individuals to achieve a common goal” (Northouse, 2022).
There has always been a connection between leadership and power throughout history. It's a
situation where there is a purpose or result to be achieved, as well as the ability or opportunity to
influence others. which Northouse mentions many times in his work. Many instances of both
successful and unsuccessful leaders may be found in the Bible, and King Solomon is no
exception. His original prayer to God for wisdom is mentioned in the Merida book and in 1
Kings 2, where it is stated, “So give your servant an obedient heart to judge your people and to
discern between good and evil” (1 Kings 2 3:9, 1966) and (2015). The behavioral approach,
which is predicated on the idea that exceptional leaders are created, not born, will be our starting
point as we examine these two chapters. It places more emphasis on the deeds of leaders than on
their character traits or inner emotions. Afterall within the article written by Mr. Lindberg, it is
shown that the four major behavioral leadership theories; The Kurt Lewin Leadership styles, The
Ohio State University Leadership Studies, The University of Michigan Studies and Blake and
Mouton’s Managerial Grid, “Behavioral leadership theory established that focusing on
production and people at the same time is possible. Focusing on both actually leads to the best
performance” (Lindberg, 2022). One of the benefits of the behavioral approach for myself
individually is that it considers the actions taken and Leaders' actions, including how they
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respond to different circumstances. This is where I can see some parallels with my own
leadership training.
Flexibility and adaptive behavior are highly valued in the context of the situational
leadership method. How well a leader adapts their style to the particular context or event
determines how effective they are. Northouse himself stated “the situational approach focuses on
leadership in situations. The premise of the theory is that different situations demand different
kinds of leadership” (p. 109). This method of managing leadership involves being accountable to
both your team and the corporation., “Situational leadership means adapting your leadership
style to each unique situation or task to meet the needs of the team or team members” (Wolf,
Judy, 2022). The maturity of the person or group has a major impact on the appropriate
leadership style. Just like in the military, someone is constantly receiving leadership training; it
just depends on their current training status and the amount of responsibility assigned to them.
As demonstrated in both Northouse leadership theory and the John Egan review, “The four
leadership styles are built on blending either high or low supportive and directive leadership
behaviors. Directive behaviors tend to include one-way communication on what needs to be done
and how it should be done. Supportive behaviors often include two-way communication with
emotional and social support” (Egan, John, 2023) and (p. 111). All things considered, high
supporting and directive behavior is ultimately what guarantees a successful result.
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References
1 Kings 2 3:9. (1966). The First Book of the Kings. In (The Catholic Edition of The Holy Bible
the Old and New Testament ed., pp. 290–294). Ignatius Press.
Egan, John. (2023). Situational Leadership Role-Play and Debrief: An Exploration of Useful
Components and Limitations. , (0). doi:10.1177/23792981231199695Sage Journals 0
Lindberg, C. (2022, September 22). . Behavioral Leadership Theory, explained by a CEO
Leadershipahoy. http://www.leadershipahoy.com/behavioral-leadership-theory-
explained-by-a-ceo/
Mango, E. (2018). Rethinking Leadership Theories. Open Journal of Leadership; Scientific
Research Publishing, 7, 57–88. https://doi.org/10.4236/ojl.2018.71005
Merida, T. (2015). Solomon's Wisdom. In Christ-Centered Exposition; Exalting Jesus in 1 & 2
Kings (pp. 18–25). B&H Publishing Group.
Northouse, P. (2022). Introduction. In (9th ed., pp. 1–18). SageLeadership; Theory and Practice
Publications, Inc.
Wolf, Judy. (2022, July 15). . . Situational Leadership: What it is and how to build it BetterUp
http://www.betterup.com/blog/situational-leadership-examples
