Development of a Situational Model for Transformational Leadership

Bass's theory (1985) of transformational leadership is based upon going beyond exchanging rewards for desired performance. Einstein (1994) proposed several steps to bring about the transformation of followers. Using a situational model, we will introduce transactional and transformational leadership theories into Einstein's steps of transformation. Transactional leadership is defined by leader-follower relationships which are based on a series of exchanges or bargains between leaders and followers. Degrees of transactional leadership are supported by the leader's activity level and the nature of the interaction with followers. With transformational leadership, leader-follower relationships are built on three distinct leader behaviors; charisma, intellectual stimulation, and individualized consideration. The situational model we intend to develop for transformational leadership will show managers when and how to employ this theory. Transformational leadership can be learned and leaders at all levels can benefit from an understanding of how transformational and transactional leadership theory can be combined into a dynamic model.