Date of Award

Spring 5-10-2019

Level of Access Assigned by Author

Open-Access Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts (MA)

Department

Interdisciplinary Program

Advisor

Gail B. Werrbach

Second Committee Member

Sandra S. Butler

Third Committee Member

Nory Jones

Abstract

This research paper review several themes on leadership evident in the literature (e.g., Cunningham, Salomone, & Wielgus, 2015; Fairholm, 2002; Hodgkinson, 2009; Sinek, 2011). Examples from the military and civilian sectors are also used to explore definitions of leadership. Each theme is examined and evaluated for optimal opportunity and efficiency in an attempt to improve the reader's leadership ability. Characteristics of effective leadership are also explored in order to describe key elements of leadership ability (Boyd, 1987). The paper also surveys some of the literature on differences between leadership and management in order to further delineate the management components of effective leadership (eg. Bass, 1985; Burns, 1978; Fairholm, 2002). Finally, recommendations on the cross pollination of leadership themes, and the characteristics, habits and management styles of effective leaders, are made in order to better inform the reader of methods of improving both personal and professional leadership skills, qualities and attributes.

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