Discuss the theory of situational leadership

What will be an ideal response?

Situational leadership theory is a contingency theory, because it focuses on the best leadership style for a given situation. Therefore, leaders are effective when they select the right leadership style for the situation they face. Specifically, this style depends on the maturity of the followers; that is, on their readiness to take responsibility for their own behavior. This is based on two variables with which we already are familiar: task behavior, or the degree to which followers have the appropriate job knowledge and skills (i.e., their need for guidance and direction) and relationship behavior, or the degree to which followers are willing to work without taking direction from others (i.e., their need for emotional support). According to situational leadership theory, leaders must diagnose the situations they face, identify the appropriate behavioral style, and then implement that response. Because situations may change, leaders must constantly reassess them, paying special attention to their followers' needs for guidance and emotional support. To the extent they do so, these leaders are likely to be effective.