An idea paper on leadership theory integration

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to pursue an idea on leadership theory integration which includes two integrative attempts. The first involves three different leadership models (the developmental/transformational leadership model, the authentic leadership model, and the indirect leadership model). The second consists of a suggestion of how this integrated model, in turn, can be integrated into an interactional person‐by‐situation paradigm including a process‐over‐time perspective.

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative analysis of the three existing leadership models mentioned above was performed. In the second integrative step, the following concepts were added: individual characteristics (general and stable as well as specific, of importance in a given situation); contextual characteristics (general more stable contextual profile as well as specific contextual profile in a given situation); appraisal and sensemaking processes over time; trust; and psychological capital.

Findings

An integrated leadership model is proposed which rests on three explicit hypotheses with two addendums. Empirical support for the suggested model is evaluated.

Practical implications

The presented idea may be of value in recruitment and selection, leadership development programmes, and organisational design.

Originality/value

The theoretical integration of existing models is new and could act as a conceptual bridge.

Citation

Larsson, G. and Eid, J. (2012), "An idea paper on leadership theory integration", Management Research Review, Vol. 35 No. 3/4, pp. 177-191. https://doi.org/10.1108/01409171211210109