Certified in Public Health (CPH) Practice Exam

Which leadership theory suggests that structural and power factors dictate the effectiveness of leadership?

1. Contingency

2. Path-Goal

3. Situational

4. Transformational

The correct answer is: Contingency

The leadership theory that suggests structural and power factors dictate the effectiveness of leadership is Contingency theory. This theory posits that a leader's effectiveness is not solely based on their personal traits or behaviors but is largely influenced by the context in which they operate. This includes various factors such as the organization's structure, the specific task at hand, and the power dynamics present in the situation. Contingency theory emphasizes that different situations require different leadership styles for optimal effectiveness. Leaders must assess the characteristics of the environment and the needs of their followers to adopt the appropriate style. This situational flexibility takes into consideration how structural and power factors can affect both the leader's influence over their team and the overall success of the group's objectives, thus explaining why certain leaders are more successful in some contexts than others. In contrast, other theories like Path-Goal focus primarily on how leaders can motivate their followers by clarifying the path to their goals, while Situational theory emphasizes the maturity level of followers to determine the leadership style needed. Transformational leadership, on the other hand, is centered on inspiring and motivating followers to achieve great things and does not specifically address structural and power factors in the way Contingency theory does.