Leadership development through behavioral learning and contingency theory

Leadership Profile One: A Rising Star

Summary of the Situation

Over the holidays, I volunteered at the homeless shelter I have been working with for a number of years. I initially started volunteering there because I thought it would look good on my resume and transcript, but I made friends and bonded with some of the people at the organization. Therefore, I continued to work there enthusiastically on three separate occasions. This past occasion, I was called upon to coordinate some events for the homeless people at the shelter. I was entrusted with the opportunity to design programs and create activities for the people, something that I had only before watched other people do.

Outcome of the Situation

I was successful in designing programs that were accepted by people of all ages, genders, and ethnic backgrounds. Many of the shelter members congratulated me. Because the experience gave me confidence, I developed a newfound desire to serve in a leadership position in the future.

Summary of Theories, Approaches, Readings

Unlike trait theories of leadership, behavioral theories of leadership suggest that individuals can learn how to be good leaders. The main methods of learning how to become a good leader are through observational learning, and through rewards and consequences.

Summary of Connections Between Theory and Observation

In this case, I learned how to design the homeless shelter programs by watching and observing. By learning through example, I modeled my leadership behavior after my mentors at the homeless shelter. Therefore, I exhibited behavioral theory when serving as a leader.

Leadership Profile Two: LGBT

Outcome of the Situation

As a result of stepping up to the plate to lead the LGBT meeting, Andrea is now a member of the leadership committee. She is a lot more willing to talk about her experiences, and she has started her own group for people who are ready to come out but have not come out of the closet yet. It is her goal to reduce the psychological pain that LGBT people feel as the result of social stigma.

Summary of Theories, Approaches, Readings

Contingency theories of leadership are situational in nature. The leader applies whichever traits and leadership styles to the situation, based on what is needed by the group. The success of the leader depends on the contingencies of the situation -- all the complex variables that can be involved. Trait theory explains the various leadership styles that different people demonstrate based on their personality traits.

Summary of Connections Between Theory and Observation

In this case, Andrea exemplifies the contingency theory of leadership. When she led the group for the first time, there were many variables or contingencies involved such as her being new to the group and her having just come out of the closet. Andrea applied herself, knowing that the group was important and that it was up to her to ensure none of the others left the room. By sharing her experiences and a video, she demonstrated a democratic-participative leadership style that continues to define her leadership characteristics according to trait theory.