In recent years there has been an emphasis in the leadership
literature on situational factors in leadership at the expense of
traits research. New evidence, however, suggests that the abandon
ment of the research for leadership traits may have been premature.
This study compares individuals holding defined leadership posi
tions with nonleaders on a number of personality dimensions. The
results indicate significant differences between the two groups
regarding specific traits and the overarching concept of personality
congruence. Conclusions are drawn concerning the implications of
these findings for those concerned with leadership development.
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