The research approaches are broadly outlined in terms of the characteristics of a leader, a
follower, and the situation. The research theories have been classified into the five approaches
of trait, behaviour, power-influence, situational and integrative, which are further conceptualised
as intra-individual, dyadic, group and organisational processes.
Yukl looks at each of the research theories on the basis of a continuum covering the following
distinctions: leader- versus follower-centred, descriptive versus prescriptive, and universal
versus contingency (situational).
The focus throughout is on leadership in large organisations, which means that many of the
research areas studied include the leadership roles undertaken by those in managerial positions