Leadership theories can be distinguished between who gets to be a leader and a follower. There are quite a number of leadership theories, it is very important for an individual to understand each leadership theory and note how it affects their individual lives. Mentioned under are some these leadership theories.

The great man theory

This theory basically tries to imply that leadership is hereditary. It tries to show that great leaders are born like that and not made. This theory makes leadership look more of a male affair and it was a theory that was used back in the day. Individuals who were born of a strong father figure were expected to live up to the same expectations.

The trait theory

This theory implies that individuals will always have the same traits of their hereditary fathers in them. This will generally border around personality and behavior. This is more like the great man theory although it has been witnessed that not all those who have this traits end up being leaders.

Contingency theory

This type of leadership is usually done depending on a particular environment. This will be done depending on what measures need to be taken. It will basically mean that leadership styles are different a good leader should know when to apply what style.

Situational theories

This theory just as the name implies will be done according to the situation and individuals finds themselves in. a good leader will be able to access the situation before they determine the type of leadership style to use.

Behavioral theories

Just like the great man theory this theory means that great leaders are born and that good leaders will always make decisions based on their personal intuition and how they feel about the situation they are in. it also tries to show however that individuals can learn how to behave through learning through training and observation.

Participative theories

This theory will try to incorporate all the members of an organization. It seeks to make everybody a part of making decisions in the organization. A good leader in this type of leadership will listen to all the employees before making the final decision.

Management theories

This type of leadership focuses on organization and group leadership. In this system employees are rewarded according to how they are performing in the organization. They are also in line for punishments according to their performances individually. This type of theory is aimed at making all individuals responsible and accountable for all of their actions in the organization.

Relationship theories

This leadership theory is based on how the leader works with his or her followers. This type of leadership makes the employees more productive as the leader will be focused on their individual growth. It helps build strong groups for collective success. Leaders in this type of leadership are usually very ethical and moral standards are supposed to be very high. This is because although the main aim is to ensure all individuals in this groups gets to grow. Leadership styles are different to all individuals and a good leader regardless of which type of leadership should have the power to know what will best suit his organization.