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Published on: September 19, 2019
Leadership and attachment theory.
Christopher G Bresnahan1, Ian I Mitroff
1University of Southern California, Rossier School of Education, Los Angeles, CA 90089-0808, USA. cbreshnah@usc.edu
The American Psychologist
|September 19, 2007
Summary
This commentary suggests integrating attachment theory into leadership studies. Such an inclusion could enhance and strengthen existing leadership theories for better understanding and application.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Organizational Behavior
- Leadership Studies
Background:
- The special issue of American Psychologist (January 2007) featured six articles on leadership.
- These articles were authored by prominent researchers including W. Bennis, S. J. Zaccaro, V. H. Vroom, A. G. Yago, B. J. Avolio, R. J. Sternberg, R. J. Hackman, and R. Wageman.
Purpose of the Study:
- To comment on the six leadership articles presented in the special issue.
- To propose an enhancement to current leadership theories.
Main Methods:
- Critical commentary and theoretical integration.
- Review of existing leadership literature and theories.
Main Results:
- The authors identify a potential gap in current leadership theories.
- Attachment theory is proposed as a valuable addition to the leadership field.
Conclusions:
- Integrating attachment theory can significantly strengthen the overall framework of leadership studies.
- This integration offers a novel perspective for future research in leadership.
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