For this assessment, you will write a 4-5 page analysis of a case study in relation to two leadership theories you have chosen and 

researched. 

Introduction 

For this assessment, you will write an analysis of a case study in relation to two leadership theories you have chosen and researched. 

As a leadership scholar, it is important to understand an array of leadership theories and the research that supports them. Do not be 

discouraged by the large number of possibilities of theories to know. Once you have a chance to examine the theories, you will learn just a couple of these theories in depth.

A broad view of leadership is vital to have a breadth of knowledge and some familiarity with a range of theories. Then, in order to gain 

depth of learning, it is equally important to focus on a few specific theories of leadership, read the research on these theories, and gain an understanding of them. This is one way to begin to widen the range of theories you may be able to use in your own self-leadership, and 

the theories you may want to further study and use in your work as a psychology professional. 

As you reflect on your learning about leadership theories, it may be helpful to consider how leadership theories, models, and styles are 

distinct yet work together to inform great leadership. 

To deepen your understanding, you are encouraged to consider the following questions and discuss them with a fellow learner, a work associate, an interested friend, or a member of the business community. 

For the following questions, refer to the article by Kilburg and Donohue (2011), “Toward a ‘Grand Unifying Theory’ of Leadership: 

Implications for Consulting Psychology,” listed in the “Leadership Theories, Models, and Styles” resource activity. 

– Which leadership theories do you think are most applicable in today’s work environments? 

– Which leadership theories do you personally subscribe to? Why? 

– Is there an all-encompassing leadership theory that covers all aspects of leadership? 

– Select one theory that you find most interesting and consider if it applies in both face-to-face and virtual environments? 

Preparation 

Choose and research two different leadership theories to critically analyze in relation to a case study you find or develop. The leader can be you or someone else in a hypothetical or real-life situation. 

Requirements 

Complete the following in a 4–5 page analysis of the case study in relation to the two leadership theories you chose and researched. 

Provide detailed information from the journal articles or other sources in your paper as the basis for critical thinking. 

– Describe the case study in detail and describe why the leader was not as effective as she or he could have been. 

– Compare and contrast the leadership theories. 

   – What are specific examples that show the similarities and differences? Provide at least two primary sources on each theory you have 

      to substantiate your points. 

– Evaluate the usefulness of different leadership theories to a leader in a specific situation. 

   – How would a leader put these theories into action in this situation? 

– Synthesize leadership theories into guidelines for effective leadership. 

   – What could the leader do to be more effective from the perspectives of these theories on leadership? 

   – How would guidelines change if the situation were a virtual team versus a face-to-face team, or vice versa? 

Remember to provide at least two primary sources on each theory you have selected to substantiate your points. Note that primary 

sources are the original writings, not summaries or analyses of the writings of others; for example, a book or article that summarizes other people’s research would not be appropriate to reference.