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Leader Approach

In: Business and Management

Submitted By zasy
Words 770
Pages 4
Leadership Approach Paper
Zahíra Martínez
LDR/531
May 28, 2012
Ben MC Collum

Leadership Approach Paper
During the reading of the paper the reader will be learning about the Behavioral Theory found as a result of study about leadership it has produced a multitude of perspectives and theories. The Behavioral Theory in one of few theories that can be found on the studies of leadership. Each theory has its pro and cons where not everyone can concord with the same opinion to each theory.
The theory centers on what leaders actually do, rather than on their personal characteristics. The Ohio State leadership studies of the 1940s are the most well-known and influential research inquiry in this area (Bensimon et al., 1989; Hoy & Miskel, 1996; Bass, 1990). The leader behavior description questionnaire (LBDQ) established measures two basic dimensions of leadership: initiating structure (task oriented) and consideration (relationship oriented) (Hoy & Miskel). Since early studies using the LBDQ indicated that the two dimensions are separate and distinct, dividing each dimension into high or low sections can create four quadrants or leadership styles. According to the LBDQ, administrators are most effective when they score high in consideration and initiating structure. Another application of this perspective is the managerial grid developed by Blake and Mouton (1964). It measures a person's leadership style by "detecting the degree of concern for production (task oriented) on a nine-point scale on one axis and concern for people (relationship oriented) on a nine-point scale on the other axis" (Bensimon et al., 1989, p. 13). The contention is effective leaders score high on both production and people concerns. The grid has often been criticized for ignoring that behaviors must be relevant to the situation in order to be effective (Bensimon et al.; Hoy & Miskel, 1996).

One of the principal strengths of the behaviorist method is that it emphases only on behavior that can be perceived and manipulated. Therefore, this approach has shown very useful in experiments under laboratory environments where behavior can be perceived and manipulated, especially in relation to the IV (independent variable) and the DV (dependent variable). The behaviorist principles of learning have been, and carry on to be, tested in the laboratory where learning can be objectively measured.
The behaviorist approach emphases on the 'here and now' rather than exploring a person's past or their medical history. This is a benefit since many people do not know the past reasons for their irregular behavior. And for many people getting rid of undesirable behavior may be more important than understanding the causes of such behavior. For example, a client with an irrational compulsion to wash his hands unreasonably many times every day may be pleased by simply eliminating himself of the abnormal behavior.
Then again, if an approach cannot treat the underlying causes of the behavior, it is likely the behavior will coming back after a period of time. Behavioral treatments such as Systematic Desensitization and Token Economies are in effect for certain disorders, such as obsessive-compulsive disorders and phobias. On the other hand, they are not so effective for more serious disorders, such as schizophrenia.
The behaviorist approach has been criticized for proposing that most human behavior is mechanical, and that human behavior is purely the product of stimulus-response behaviors. This seems to be a very weaken attitude.
In particular, the approach overlooks human beings' complex thought processes (cognition) and emotions. In Social Learning Theory, Bandura (1977) has revealed that cognitive factors cannot be ignored if learning is to be understood. Bandura has pointed out that it is knowing, having the facts, that certain behaviors will be rewarded or punished that shapes behavior just as much as the rewards or punishments themselves. For example, Little Johnny knows he will be spanked for touching the electric fire, and that is why he does not touch it.
In addition, the principles of behaviorism have been tested mainly on animals. Such discoveries may not apply totally to human behavior, which is much more complex.
Finally, ethical questions have been raised over some behavioral treatments which have been used without the consent of the client, and in treatments such as Aversion Therapy where pain and discomfort are deliberately used to change the behavior of the client.
Hoshi-Chan x

References (
Highbean. (2012, May 27). Retrieved from Highbean research: http://www.highbeam.com/doc/1G1-136071081.html
Wikipedia. (2012, May 27). Retrieved from Wikipedia: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Leadership
Sherman, E. Y. (2012, May 27). Net Places. Retrieved from Net places: http://www.netplaces.com/leadership/personal-traits-of-leaders/strengths-and-weaknesses.htm

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