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SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/cadet-trait-theory

How does trait theory try to explain leadership?

It looks for personality and character qualities of leaders.

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  1. By measuring only formal authority
  2. By identifying traits linked with leaders ✔
  3. By ignoring individual qualities

Why: Trait theory searches for the special qualities that set leaders apart from followers. Researchers hoped to find traits all leaders share, but found each leader is unique.

Huh, didn't know that: A classic trait theory exercise asks you to pick five qualities for your perfect leader.

The dad joke
Why did the trait list need more paper? Good qualities would not stop showing up.
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References

Answer: By identifying traits linked with leaders. Trait theory searches for the special qualities that set leaders apart from followers. Researchers hoped to find traits all leaders share, but found each leader is unique.

  1. Learn to Lead Volume 1 www.gocivilairpatrol.com/media/cms/Vol1LetterLowFinal_FDCFE2AA96703.pdf
    Trait theory explains leadership in terms of the personality and character of the leader.
    Checked 2026-10-10.

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