Taxonomic efforts in the description of leader behavior: A synthesis and functional interpretation

Abstract

A systematic definition of the behaviors contributing to effective organizational leadership is required for both theory development and the design of training interventions. This article describes an attempt to formulate a general taxonomy capable of describing the functional behavioral requirements for effective organizational leadership. This effort began with a review of earlier taxonomic efforts for describing leader behavior and with the specification of the demands placed on leaders in organizational settings. A subsequent analysis of the actions required for an adaptive response to these demands led to the specification of 13 leader behavior dimensions. This taxonomy was then evaluated with respect to the existing taxonomic literature, principles of taxonomic development, and other available evidence. Finally, the taxonomy's relationship to other theoretical systems was discussed, along with some of its broader implications for understanding the determinants of leadership performance.