Principles of Leadership Week 4A and 4B

Principles of LeadershipWEEK #4 DISCUSSION A | Ephesians 4:3 | Leadership Behavior and Unity

Discussion Topic

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Scripture Reading

• Ephesians 4:3
• Philippians 2:2
• 1 Corinthians 11:18

Required Reading

• Northouse | Chapter 4: Behavioral Approach (Pages 81–104); Chapter 5: Situational Approach (Pages 105–126)
• Irving and Strauss | Chapter 5: Creating a Place for Individuality (Pages 101–118)

Learning Objectives Achieved: 2 and 3

Scripture calls leaders to pursue unity, while the readings emphasize that leadership behavior directly shapes team dynamics. Northouse highlights task and relationship behaviors, and Irving and Strauss stress creating space for individuality. Using at least one properly cited reference from the textbook, explain how leadership behavior influences unity and team effectiveness.

Reflect on a leadership situation where behavior either strengthened or weakened unity. What specific behaviors contributed to that outcome? Finally, describe one leadership behavior you will intentionally practice to promote unity while still valuing individual differences.

Principles of LeadershipWEEK #4 DISCUSSION B | Leading People Differently

Discussion Topic

Follow

Scripture Reading

• Ephesians 4:3
• Philippians 2:2
• 1 Corinthians 11:18

Required Reading

• Northouse | Chapter 4: Behavioral Approach (Pages 81–104); Chapter 5: Situational Approach (Pages 105–126)
• Irving and Strauss | Chapter 5: Creating a Place for Individuality (Pages 101–118)

Learning Objectives Achieved: 2 and 3

The situational approach teaches that effective leaders adjust their style to meet their followers' needs. Irving and Strauss emphasize recognizing individuality rather than leading everyone the same way. Using at least one properly cited reference from the textbook, explain why adapting leadership style is essential for effectiveness.

Now consider a leadership situation. You are leading a team where one member is highly capable but disengaged, while another is motivated but inexperienced. Describe two different leadership approaches you would take with these individuals. Then explain which approach would have the greatest impact and why. Finally, explain how your leadership decisions would influence team unity and performance.