From the onset Northouse sets the learning goal stage; Leadership is defined and described in the Introduction along with dialogue of Trait Versus Process Leadership, Assigned Versus Emergent Leadership as well as Leadership and Power, Coercion and Management.

Design of the volume is detailed along with a summary and References.

Fourteen explicit Section titles consist of: Trait Approach, Skills Approach, Style Approach, Situational Approach, Contingency Theory, Path Goal Theory, Leadership Member Exchange theory, transformational Leadership, Team Leadership, Psychodynamic Approach, Women and Leadership, Culture and Leadership, and Leadership Ethics as listed in the Table of Contents.

A Name Index, Subject Index, about the author and about the contributors sum up the final portion of the work.

Chapters are chockfull with solid, skilled writing packed setting down numerous self-helps, surveys, case studies, how-to suggestions for those having leadership responsibilities, including how to go about assuring a productive work climate, how and why of listening to others and methods for best dealing with obstacles.

Self-assessment questionnaires included can prove valuable for those candid regarding their self-valuation of their own strengths and weaknesses. Worksheets provide guides for moving the group toward goals.

Apprehending that this volume is a result of the writer's individual experience while training, coaching and accessing vis-à-vis management issues; makes the writing more significant for this reader.

Northouse sets down concepts, in addition to the resources, proposals and self-awareness required to put theory into practice. I find the blend of intellectually comprehensive presentation makes the tome decidedly understandable for readers whether as occupational or instruction, unpaid assistant or paid leaders.

The fourteen chapters deliver material concerning the foremost facets I want to investigate regarding leadership and how to continue to advance my own style and approach with greater success.  I have taken part in and led various staff committees during my teaching career, have directed adults preparing, and those attending, training sessions with Youth Group activities, have directed volunteer staff for summer Scout Day Camps and the like.

Reader friendly check lists, recommendations and other tools are grounded in solid experience. Development concerning foremost perceptions and diverse methods of management detailing illustrations, examination and documentation as culmination of chapter is helpful.

Philosophy is satisfactory, but approximately 4 decades spent effectively teaching school, and taking vigorous part in a multiplicity of school related and other groups, Youth Group activities and the like; have imparted  the understanding that concept without good solid, 'this worked for me in such and such circumstances, while this fell flat' are always more helpful to my way of thinking than is only learning theory.

Whether The Reader is beginning a leadership role for the first time, or has many year's expertise as a leader in whatever effort the reader may be involved; I find Peter G Northouse's Leadership Theory and Practice Fourth Edition to be an edifying, thought-provoking read providing much grist for thought and exercise for polishing skills and developing new ones too.

Northouse's Leadership Theory and Practice Fourth Edition is one in an increasing body of apt, constructive, and highly beneficial work calculated for those who find themselves serving in a Management position wherever and whatever their work, field or life situation may be, as well as those who seek to enter the world of leadership whatever their personal endeavor may be.

Happy to recommend Peter G Northouse's Leadership Theory and Practice Fourth Edition.

Available  hard cover,  paperback,  text book binding

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Reviewed by Molly Reviews Books      AuthorsDen    molly martin

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Internet search reveals Author Biography:  Dr. Peter Guy Northouse PhD, speech communication, is Professor of Communication in the School of Communication at Western Michigan University. He has taught courses in leadership, interpersonal, and organizational communication.  In addition to publications in professional journals, Northouse is the author of Leadership: Theory and Practice (4th ed.). His scholarly and curricular interests include models of leadership, leadership assessment, ethical leadership, and leadership and group dynamics.