What are the two competing theories of leadership?

The correct choice highlights two recognized approaches to understanding leadership dynamics: the Trait Model and the Process-Based Model.

The Trait Model focuses on the personal characteristics and traits that leaders possess which can influence their effectiveness. This perspective suggests that inherent qualities such as intelligence, confidence, and charisma can define a successful leader. Scholars who advocate for this model emphasize the importance of identifying specific traits that correlate with successful leadership.

In contrast, the Process-Based Model considers leadership as a series of interactions between leaders and their followers, suggesting that effective leadership is dependent on the context and relationships rather than fixed traits. This model recognizes the fluid nature of leadership where roles can shift, and the effectiveness of a leader can depend heavily on how they engage with their team members.

Both models provide foundational insights into how leadership can be understood, evaluated, and developed, making them essential frameworks for studying leadership theory.