Group Leadership and Conflict Summary

Planning a playground

Student’s Name

Institutional Affiliation

• What leadership theories and styles do you see in the reading material?

There are various leadership theories and styles that have been identified from the conversation. They include the trait theory, contingency theory, and behavioral theories. Trait theory is based on the type of personality that a leader possesses and how their personal being influences their leadership decisions and styles. Trait theory is of the opinion that leaders are indeed born and cannot be born. Leadership is an innate quality that one is born with. Behavioral theories consider the behavior of a leader and what style of leadership they use. There are three types of leaders that are identified in the behavioral theory which are the autocratic leader, democratic and laizze faire leadership.

Contingency theories of leadership dwell upon how the environment and external factors influence the leadership styles. Contingency theory is of the opinion that leaders and their leadership style are influenced by the issues and factors that are present in their situation. This theory tries to determine the most effective and appropriate leadership style for each particular situation.

• Were there any leadership strategies you identified?

The leadership styles identified in the reading material have been expansive ranging from behavioral, trait theory and contingency approach. David displays trait theory leadership style due to his first and quick initiative to launch into the purpose of the meeting and a willingness to get the entire team started. This shown an innate ability ad n leaning towards leadership responsibilities. On the other hand, Aisha and others have been having initiatives at ensuring the group reaches a conclusion by taking personal initiatives reacting contingency theories leadership style.

• Discuss constructive and destructive conflict.

Constructive conflict is aimed at having differing opinions whereby the parties are ready to argue out clearly and reach a solution while the destructive conflict is one that involves parties taking issue personally leading to veering off to non-issues that would not benefit the main cause of the conversation. Between Ray and Phil, Constructive conflict is identifiable.

• How would you increase cohesion for these teams?

To increase cohesion for this team, the recommendation of having regular meetings is put forward. The group needs to have a regular meeting to set issues straight. Further, they need to appoint a team leader to ensure that the team goals and objectives are regulated and met.

References

Jung, D. I., & Avolio, B. J. (1999). Effects of leadership style and followers' cultural orientation on performance in group and individual task conditions.Academy of management journal, 42(2), 208-218.