Leadership Programs: Framework for Creating Real Leaders

Abstract

Leadership Development Program (LDP) is a combination of current and future leaders. In other words, the LDP prefers cloning subordinates, etc., to teaching true leaders. This article reviews the LDP and describes aspects of programs that help train, grow, and develop true leaders, not followers. Also, it synthesizes information from academic books and journal articles on the subject using secondary sources. By examining the existing problems and concerns of the current LDP framework, we can develop a theoretical understanding of how LDP can be taught and improved. This framework provides unique insight into key psychological traits of leadership, including independence, objectivity, and the ability to express conflict. Cognitive frameworks and skills, as well as individual emotional intelligence, form the basis for the development of new LDPs, but program components vary according to individual diversity, needs, and current and future delivery methods. This work is unique and valuable for two reasons. First, it asserts its rightful leadership position by providing a synthesis of literature that compiles previously scattered LDP material. Second, a conceptual framework is developed to demonstrate how LDP can be incorporated into learning and leadership development at the collective and individual levels.