Concept of Authentic Leadership

Concept of Authentic Leadership

Introduction

The process of leadership consists of the interaction of those in a structure of status, who occupy the uppermost position, otherwise called leader, with the rest of the group. A fundamental characteristic of members of a group of high status is to propose ideas and activities in the group using this way of means to influence the members of the group to change their behavior. But, since the social influence is always a mutual process that characterizes the leaders is that they can influence others in the group more than they are affected themselves. The following essay is based on the critical analysis of the concept of authentic leadership in context to early childhood education in accordance with different leadership theories and themes along with the view of Robert Evans that authentic leaders build their practice outward from their core commitments rather than inward from a management text.

Discussions

For the concept of leadership there are several definitions classified differently according to the theoretical approaches adopted, mainly based on the abilities and qualities an individual possesses that qualifies him to be a leader.

The term leadership, by its very nature, is laden with meaning often derived from the interpreter's varied life history. For some, this represents an internalized identity, shared processes, or civic engagement grounded in experiences as social activists, with developmental mentors, or from positive group experiences. For others, the term may elicit a more negative interpretation associated with abuses of power, positional, or an impersonal focus on end goals. These interpretations are often the effect of sociohistorical marginalization or negative encounters with those that inappropriately wielded influence. Both ends of this interpretive spectrum can also be found in the body of literature representing leadership theory. As the issues facing organizations became more complex, leadership theories began reflecting the dynamic and multifaceted nature of leadership issues. Theories began describing the importance of values in leadership behavior, suggesting that leadership serves and helps people, improves situations, and brings everyone involved to a higher moral place. In addition, the practice of leadership became a focus of study, and leadership scholars claimed that the complexities of contemporary issues and the demands on individuals and groups required a deeper attention to learning, adapting, and self-awareness.

Currently, high-level administrators, directors, and officers in organizations are faced with questions about how to best serve the people in their company, meet the needs of production and profit, and uphold their vision and mission. In many ways, the work of leadership is about transition. Those hoping to lead their organization must meet the challenges of dealing with change and managing the transitional process. To better understand the transitional work of leadership, people must first understand the difference between leadership and authority. This paper will be analyzing the statement of Robert Evans. The discussion part of the paper will provide justification in the favor of Robert Evans Statement and also the points that are against this statement.

Concept of Authentic Leadership

The key for a successful leader is ...