Trait Behavior Questions

Trait Behavior Questions

Argosy University

Trait Behavior Questions

1. Which trait or behavior theory or principles would you adopt and consider essential in order to manage or lead a healthcare organization?

I feel that one vital core element of any healthcare organization is built amongst teamwork.  This will also involve another core element, effective communication. A lack communication and teamwork can result in errors and uncoordinated care. The current state of our healthcare system is in reform; which requires today’s healthcare leaders to hold skills in communication, conflict management, and building a culture of trust and a desire to help lower-level employees grow and develop. (Healey & Marchese, 2012 p.106) These two characters are still subjective in considering the level of management/leadership involved. This is why I am partial to level of conceptualization for leadership theories.  Gary Yuki (2010) states the following regarding the level of conceptualization for leadership theories:

Leadership can be described as (1) an intra-individual process, (2) a dyadic process, (3) a group process, or (4) an organizational process. What level is emphasized will depend on the primary research question, the type of criterion variables used to evaluate leadership effectiveness, and the type of mediating processes used to explain leadership influence.

I feel that I would feel more confident is beginning to answer the question through this approach. If I am understanding this correctly, it only makes me pose the question of what level of management is in question. Yet if I chose a theory I would go with Multi-level theories as they utilizes various as measures. Although it is has been read that this is one of the harder approaches to execute. It is likely due to the need for various experiences in various environments but an integrated approach seems more flexible.

2. Describe at least two examples where the theoretical concepts underlying trait or behavior theories of leadership were successfully applied in providing effective leadership in modern real-world healthcare organizations.

This is actually difficult for me. Cause how I see integrated approach may or may not be on the mark. I see it as an adaptable approach that utilizes various psychologies of leadership and experiences.  At its core it is insightful and responsive. This is effective in that it takes variances from situational, power-influence, behavioral, etc. So pin-pointing and example is difficult.  

Situational approach, case manager supervisor of a crisis center need to have various jobs accomplished within his diverse group of mangers. So leadership style for each needs to be applied. Let us a say a junior case manager of a year would likely need a more direct style than a case manager of 10 years.

References

Healey, B. & Marchese, M. (2012). Foundations of Health Care Management: Principles and Methods. Somerset, NJ, USA: John Wiley & Sons.  Retrieved from: ProQuest ebrary.

Yukl, G. (2009). Leadership in organizations - 8th Edition. Upper Saddle River, NJ: Prentice Hall. Retrieved from: Argosy University.