Contingency Theory

Contingency theory proposes there is no best way to perform a leadership role and what leadership style is effective in one scenario will not necessarily be effective in a different situation. Leadership ability is determined by many factors like different situations, varying skills and behaviors of followers, and differing leadership styles.

This theory explains how someone can be very effective in one leadership situation but not be effective as a leader in a different scenario. It stresses the importance of developing a varied range of leadership qualities and being able to adapt to changing situations.