Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) Certification Practice Test

Which leadership theory suggests that the leader’s role is primarily to meet the needs of the team?

1. Transformational leadership

2. Functional leadership

3. Situational leadership

4. Trait leadership

The correct answer is: Functional leadership

The theory that emphasizes the leader's role in primarily meeting the needs of the team is Functional Leadership. This approach centers around the idea that a leader's effectiveness is determined by their ability to fulfill the requirements of the team for achieving its goals. This theory posits that leaders must understand the dynamics of the team and identify what is necessary for the team's success, such as providing support, delegating tasks, facilitating communication, and addressing conflicts. In doing so, the leader helps empower team members, ensuring that individual strengths are utilized effectively, and fostering a collaborative environment where everyone can contribute to the team's objectives. On the other hand, Transformational Leadership focuses on inspiring and motivating followers to transcend their own self-interest for the good of the group and to achieve extraordinary outcomes. Situational Leadership emphasizes the importance of adapting leadership styles based on the maturity and competence of followers. Trait Leadership is centered on identifying specific qualities or traits that effective leaders possess, rather than focusing on the needs of the team. Each of these theories has its unique perspectives and applications, but Functional Leadership is specifically aligned with the idea of addressing and meeting the team's needs.