Understanding the Field of Leadership: Theories, Concepts & Applications

Definition

The field of leadership is an interdisciplinary academic discipline studying leadership as a phenomenon, practice, and developmental process.

Disciplinary Foundations

• Psychology (traits, behavior, cognition, motivation)
• Sociology (group dynamics, power, culture)
• Management/Organizational Science (strategy, structure, change)
• Political Science (governance, authority, public leadership)
• Education (leadership development, pedagogy)
• Communication, Ethics, Neuroscience, Complexity Science

Core Research Areas

• Leadership styles & theories (transformational, servant, authentic, adaptive, situational).
• Leader development & education (experiential, coaching, assessment).
• Leadership & organizational culture/climate.
• Team leadership, shared/distributed leadership.
• Decision-making, judgment, crisis leadership.
• Leadership communication, influence, storytelling.
• Ethical leadership, followership, diversity/inclusion.
• Contextual leadership: corporate, public, nonprofit, education, healthcare, military.

Purpose

Generate knowledge to inform practice, enhance effectiveness, develop leaders, and address complex societal/organizational challenges.