Canadian Health Information Management Association Practice Exam

Which leadership theory suggests people are born with certain characteristics that predispose them to be leaders?

1. Contingency

2. Path-goal

3. Trait

4. None of the above

The correct answer is: Trait

The correct answer reflects the Trait leadership theory, which posits that individuals are born with inherent traits that make them suitable leaders. This theory focuses on identifying specific characteristics, such as confidence, intelligence, decisiveness, and sociability, that are believed to have a natural basis. These traits are thought to distinguish effective leaders from non-leaders, implying that certain people possess qualities that predispose them towards leadership roles. In contrast, other theories like Contingency and Path-goal emphasize situational factors and behaviors rather than innate characteristics. Contingency theory examines how different situations can affect the choice of leadership style, highlighting that effective leadership depends on contextual variables. Path-goal theory, on the other hand, centers around how leaders can help their followers achieve goals by clarifying the path and removing obstacles, focusing on the actions and behaviors leaders can adopt for different circumstances rather than their inherent traits. Therefore, the emphasis on intrinsic qualities in Trait theory makes it the appropriate choice in this context.